The mayor of Fréjus, David Rachline, is under investigation for alleged corruption and favoritism in public contracts.

On Tuesday, 40 gendarmes, accompanied by judicial officials, raided the town hall and several local companies as part of a probe launched in January 2024 by the Parquet National Financier.

The investigation follows claims made in the book "Les Rapaces," which accuses Rachline of unethical dealings with a construction magnate and mismanagement of public funds.

Rachline, a prominent figure in Marine Le Pen's National Rally party, denies the allegations, calling them baseless attacks.

The seaside town of Fréjus, once a showcase for the party, now faces scrutiny over its governance.

Rachline is also set to stand trial in September for a separate case involving conflicts of interest.