Violence in France continues for 5th consecutive day, spreading to Belgium & Switzerland

Paris/Brussels – The intensity of violence that began in France after the death of 17-year-old Nahel Marzouk has continued for the fifth consecutive day. Shops and vehicles are being looted and arson in the capital city Paris and Marseilles. However, the French system could not stop the violent youth. Because of this, some political parties and leaders in France have demanded President Emmanuel Macron implement an emergency. Meanwhile, the violence that started in France has also impacted countries like Belgium and Switzerland; more than 100 protesters have been arrested.

On Tuesday morning, police tried to stop a speeding car in Nanterre, a suburb near Paris. However, Nahel Marzouk, who was driving the vehicle, tried to speed ahead without paying heed to the police. During this, the police opened fire in action. Nahel, who was injured due to this, died during treatment. Police negligence is said to be the reason behind Nahel’s death. It is the second incident this year wherein a car driver was killed in police action.

Moreover, Nahel’s death has brought forth the issue of the powers given to the police in France. Some political parties, voluntary and human rights organisations allege that specific groups are targeted in the French police action. It is said that the events against this background led to an explosion of civil discontent and riots. The capital Paris and the city of Marseilles have become major centres of the riots.

Besides, loot, arson and destruction have started in the cities for five days. The supermarkets, branded shops, historical buildings, schools, and tourist places have been targeted along with the police. In the last five days, over six thousand incidents of arson have been registered, and hundreds of police vehicles were destroyed in the fire. Heavy damage to more than 500 houses, buildings and shops was reported too. Further, as per the reports, violent protesters have targeted the home of local mayor Vincent Jeanbrun near the capital Paris.

Nearly 45,000 police and security personnel have been deployed across the country. About one and a half thousand people have been detained by the French police. The police used tear gas and batons against protestors in the capital of Paris and Marseilles. Despite this, the attacks are not being controlled. Besides, per the indications, President Macron’s government is facing a new crisis.

Meanwhile, France has been plagued by protests over the past few years, including the ‘Yellow Vest Protests’, the fuel hike, and the pension reform. Due to these continuous demonstrations, one after the other, Macron’s popularity has decreased, and his government has come under constant criticism. Nahel’s death and the subsequent riots seem to have added to President Macron’s troubles.