Brigade de Recherche et d'Intervention (BRI)

The Brigade de Recherche et d'Intervention (BRI) is a specialized unit within the French police force, known for its expertise in handling complex and dangerous operations, including counter-terrorism, organized crime, and hostage situations. They are currently newsworthy due to their successful apprehension of Ilyas Kherbouch, also known as "Ganito." Kherbouch had escaped from the Villepinte prison on March 7, 2026, with the help of individuals posing as police officers. After a 13-day manhunt, the BRI located and arrested him on March 20, 2026, in a holiday residence in Canet-en-Roussillon, Pyrénées-Orientales, coincidentally on his 21st birthday. This operation highlights the BRI's effectiveness in tracking down and recapturing escaped fugitives, underscoring their critical role in maintaining public security and law enforcement.