Paris: Riots in France appear to be calming, nearly six days after a violent protest in response to the shooting of teenager Nahel M during a police traffic stop. Since Sunday night, violence seems to subside as fewer arrests are being made. President of France, Emmanuel Macron has thanked all those involved in handling the situation for their exceptional support.
“Police, gendarmes, firefighters, thank you for your exceptional mobilization over the past few nights. I know how difficult these have been for you and your families. You have my support”, tweeted Emmanuel Macron.
Meanwhile, President Emmanuel Macron has asked the interior ministry to keep a massive police presence on the streets. On Monday, mayors called for rallies to be held outside the town hall to protest violence and looting. Over 700 people attended the rally in L’Hay-les-Roses in support of Vincent Jeanbrun, the mayor whose home was attacked by rioters who fired rockets at his fleeing wife and children.
Despite violence taking a back seat, over 45000 officers are still deployed across the country for the past three nights. More than 150 people were arrested on Sunday night, compared to 700 arrested the night before. There were 297 cars set on fire compared with Thursday’s 1900 while 34 buildings were damaged or set ablaze compared to 500 on Thursday.