Luxury port scandal rocks France as authorities detain ten in Saint-Tropez

France is continuing an investigation into corruption at the port of Saint-Tropez over a suspected bribery scheme for securing yacht berths, with around €856,000 seized and 10 people in custody, as per French media.

According to the Draguignan prosecutor’s office, the investigation was opened in 2024 following a whistleblower report alleging an illegal payment system used to obtain priority docking spaces for large yachts.

Investigators believe that over several years, port employees and intermediaries may have bypassed the official booking system, offering “prime positions” for yachts longer than 18 metres in exchange for cash payments.

A total of 10 main suspects are involved in the case, while three others were questioned under a free status. Preliminary estimates suggest total damages could reach around €2 million. Authorities also noted that some suspects appeared to be living lifestyles inconsistent with their official income.

The defendants are scheduled to appear before a court in Draguignan on November 23, 2026.

By Jeyhun Aghazada