New Speed Cameras Burned Hours After Installation in Martinique

Fort-de-France, Martinique — Several newly installed speed cameras were intentionally set on fire in the L’Union neighborhood of Lamentin during the night of April 23 into April 24, 2025.

The cameras were only installed hours before the arson. They were meant to help address the alarming rise in traffic-related fatalities and injuries linked to speeding, substance abuse, and other factors. The prefect of Martinique, Étienne Desplanques, expressed deep concern over this incident.

“When I see this latest act of vandalism, I think first of the more than ten people who have died on our roads this year alone, and the 20% increase in injuries related to drugs and alcohol compared to last year,” Desplanques said. “These acts work against the interests of Martinique and our drivers. I condemn these actions and am determined to replace the cameras for the safety of all motorists in Martinique.”

Desplanques confirmed that the police are actively investigating the incidents, looking to identify the responsible parties. The cameras had been reinstalled following a previous wave of vandalism last year during protests over the high cost of living.

Two of the cameras were located near the Brasserie Lorraine in Lamentin, and another was near the Vito station at Etang Z’Abricots, Fort-de-France. None of the deployed cameras had time to function before being rendered useless again.

Local drivers interviewed on April 24 expressed little surprise at the incidents, highlighting the ongoing issues with vandalism against speed cameras in the region.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities continue to emphasize the importance of having functional speed cameras to improve road safety across the island.