Intelligence indicated concerns the stolen vehicle could be used against the Jewish community in Sarcelles, prompting heightened security around sensitive sites.

A vehicle found near a synagogue in Sarcelles, Val-d’Oise, contained a military-grade firearm and a handgun after a suspicious report Saturday evening, and the car was later confirmed stolen.

Investigators are continuing to determine motives and gather further details surrounding the incident.

Officials noted early statements of heightened vigilance, with all possibilities on the table, including a potential terrorist motive, pending more evidence.

Explosives experts swept the area and found no explosive devices.

Authorities have not identified a suspect or confirmed a target from the Jewish community, though security around sensitive sites in Sarcelles and the Val-d’Oise was increased.

The probe involves multiple agencies, including the DGSI, SDAT, DNJP, and DIPN (Val-d’Oise), with PNAT coordinating the case.

Police confirmed an evacuation around the area as a precautionary measure, with security steps in place for public safety.

PNAT opened an inquiry on charges including terrorist criminal association and possession/transport of weapons related to a potential terrorist enterprise; the investigation is ongoing.

Earlier in the year, authorities foiled three attacks, including a February knife attack on a gendarme at the Arc de Triomphe during a ceremony.

France’s Interior Minister stated the motives and those involved are not yet known and that the vehicle was found near a synagogue in Sarcelles as investigators continue work.

A security cordon surrounded the car, which was parked near a cinema and several evacuated venues; bomb disposal experts found no explosives.