SARCELLES, FRANCE (VINnews) – French police discovered weapons in a stolen vehicle linked to a potential attack on the Jewish community in Sarcelles, north of Paris, prompting the urgent evacuation of about 300 people Saturday evening, authorities said Sunday.

The incident unfolded around 9:30 p.m. Saturday on Rue Henri Dunant in a busy area near a cinema, restaurants and a local synagogue, according to multiple reports. The Brigade Anti-Criminalité (BAC) responded after the Direction Générale de la Sécurité Intérieure (DGSI) flagged the vehicle as suspicious and potentially intended for violent action against Jews.

Bomb disposal experts conducted a controlled check and found no explosives. Inside the trunk, officers discovered a loaded rifle described as a “weapon of war” with seven cartridges and a handgun loaded with 10 rounds, sources told Europe 1 and AFP. The vehicle was reported stolen.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez confirmed the details Sunday on BFMTV, noting the vehicle was identified near the synagogue. He said a suspect had been identified and located in the vicinity, and that an investigation was underway.

The national antiterrorism prosecutor’s office has taken charge of the case, which remains ongoing. No arrests had been publicly announced as of Sunday afternoon.

Sarcelles is home to a large Jewish community, often referred to as “Little Jerusalem,” which has faced antisemitic incidents in the past.

Authorities acted swiftly to secure the area and prevent potential harm. Further details on the suspect or motives were not immediately released.

This latest incident underscores ongoing security concerns for Jewish communities in France amid heightened threats.