A cache of weapons has been found and 11 people were arrested after the French authorities cracked down on a neo-Nazi group during police raids in eight regions.

Three of the “most active” members of the group appeared in court today to be charged according to France’s Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve.

In a statement, Mr Cazeneuve said 11 rifles, two guns, 28 knives, some bullet-proof vests and helmets and several Nazi flags were among the items seized during the raids

He added that the members of the group, who allegedly were spreading racist messages, were arrested on Wednesday in an investigation of “criminal association” and “participation to a combatant group”.