Pig’s Head Affair in Nice: Investigation Focuses on Estrosi’s Entourage

The investigation into the discovery of a pig’s head with anti-Semitic insults in front of the home of Nice Mayor Christian Estrosi has taken a new turn, with investigators now focusing on the possibility of manipulation by individuals connected to the mayor’s inner circle. Two men were brought before judges on Friday, March 13, 2026, with a view to indictment, according to the Nice Public Prosecutor’s office.

New Suspects and Custody Developments

Damien Martinelli, the Nice Public Prosecutor, announced that two men, of French nationality, were presented to judges for potential indictment. One suspect, in his forties, was arrested at his home in Nice. The other, a 79-year-aged retired former police officer from the Territorial Surveillance Directorate (DST) now working as a private detective specializing in cybercrime, was summoned for questioning. Custody was lifted for two women, born in 1963 and 1967, on Thursday afternoon. Entrevue.fr reports that the investigation is ongoing, with potential custody extensions of up to 48 hours for the remaining suspects.

Links to Estrosi’s Campaign and Digital Marketing

The investigation suggests a potential link between the suspects and efforts to boost Christian Estrosi’s electoral campaign on social media. The forty-year-old suspect is described as an expert in communication and digital marketing, with a computer science degree, and is reportedly close to the Estrosi couple. Investigators are exploring whether this individual exceeded his remit by attempting to create buzz for the campaign, potentially leading to the incident.

Connections to Tunisian Nationals

Telephone and physical contact has been established between the two suspects and two Tunisian nationals previously indicted and imprisoned on March 6th. These Tunisian men are suspected of leaving the pig’s head at Estrosi’s residence. The earlier indictments were for public incitement to hatred or violence based on origin, race, or religion, aggravated violence targeting an elected public official, and fraudulent access to an automated processing system of personal data. Actu.fr reports that the prosecutor, Damien Martinelli, has promised a more detailed statement later in the day.

Estrosi’s Response and Allegations of Infiltration

Christian Estrosi has publicly denounced the incident as an attempt to destabilize his campaign, accusing rivals of orchestrating an “unprecedented infiltration.” He initially pointed fingers at the team of his opponent, Éric Ciotti, and businessman Pierre-Édouard Stérin, who have both denied any involvement. Estrosi’s lawyer, Olivier Baratelli, reiterated the claim of a deliberate attempt to undermine the mayor’s campaign. Libération notes that Estrosi maintains his innocence regarding any knowledge of the manipulation operation.

Campaign Context

The incident occurred just days before the first round of municipal elections in Nice, where Estrosi is seeking a fourth term as mayor. Polls suggest he is currently trailing his rival, Éric Ciotti. Le Monde highlights the disruptive impact of the affair on the campaign.