French officials suspect pranksters in a rash of fake bomb threats and warn of heavy punishments
The Palace of Versailles was forced to evacuate visitors for the fourth time in less than a week for a security check after a bomb alert PARIS -- The sumptuous Palace of Versailles was forced to evacuate visitors for the fourth time in less than a week for a security check after a bomb alert. Airports and schools around France also fell victim to bomb alerts and forced evacuations after similar warnings a day earlier. Even a nuclear research institute received a threat Thursday. Pranksters or plotters? No bombs have been found, but authorities can’t take risks with the lives of travelers, students or workers. Still, the government is growing impatient, threatening prison terms and heavy fines for those making fake bomb threats. A rash of false alarms forced the evacuation of 15 airports and cancellation of 130 flights, as well as shutting the doors to the Palace of Versailles repeatedly since last Saturday. Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said Thursday evening that 18 people had been...