Spokeswoman for Paris prosecutor says they have been taken into custody for questioning, against backdrop of violent recent taxi strike

Two Uber managers have been taken into custody for questioning over “illicit activity” linked to the ride-hailing company’s low-cost service, the Paris prosecutor’s spokeswoman has said.

The Uber managers, who have not been named, were detained on Monday. The US company has sparred with the government over its low-cost service. Despite a violence-marred taxi strike, Uber says it would keep operating the service until a ruling by the country’s top court.

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

Uber backlash: taxi drivers' protests in Paris part of global revolt Read more

French authorities are frustrated that Uber does not 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Uber argues that the French taxi system is outdated and needs reform to keep up with apps and geo-localisation.