France detains Uber managers over ‘illicit’ low-cost service

The spokeswoman for the Paris prosecutor says two Uber managers have been taken into custody for questioning over “illicit activity” linked to the ride-hailing company's low-cost service.

Agnes Thibault-Lecuivre didn't name the Uber two managers detained Monday. The American company has sparred with the government over its lowest-cost service. Despite a violence-marred taxi strike, Uber says it plan to keep operating the service until a ruling by the country's top court.

The French government filed a legal complaint against Uber on Friday over UberPOP, one of the services on the popular smartphone app, which allows drivers to pick up passengers in their personal cars despite having no professional drivers' licenses.

The standoff reflects larger tensions in France over how to regulate fast-moving technology and stay globally competitive while ensuring labor protections.

French authorities are frustrated that Uber doesn't pay the same taxes and social charges as traditional taxis do.

Uber argues that the French taxi system is outdated and needs reform to keep up with apps.

Wire services