In addition, there were 2,579 arson attacks and 316 attacks on public buildings, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin told the Sunday newspaper “JDD”. At the same time, 36 officers were being investigated on suspicion of excessive use of force. Darmanin did not name the number of injured protesters.
The protests, which had been peaceful for weeks, turned violent on March 16. On that day, the government pushed through the highly controversial reform to gradually raise the retirement age from 62 to 64 without a vote in parliament. The Constitutional Council is still studying the reform.
The Home Secretary rejected the recent widespread accusation that police officers acted aggressively against demonstrators and used disproportionate force. The right to demonstrate does not include the right to use violence. If far-leftists and other rioters fuel the largely peaceful protests, law enforcement should step in, Darmanin said.
The police can show legitimate strength and act robustly at times, as he put it. But they are responding to extremely violent attacks by professional rioters who want to destroy property and kill police officers.
The unions announced the next nationwide day of protest on Thursday. Strikes continue to disrupt public life. Air traffic and the supply of fuel to filling stations is hindered at certain points. (sda/dpa)
Soource :Watson
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
