A number of protests have the Nanterre sub town in Paris, France in unrest. The protests commenced on Tuesday, June 27, following the death of a 17-year-old boy who was allegedly shot by a police officer during a traffic stop.
Reportedly, the situation occurred when the teenager attempted to leave the checkpoint, causing a violent reaction from the official who fatally shot the youngster. After the tragic incident, several riots and protests have taken place in Paris’ suburbs during this week. As a result, twenty-four officers were injured and 40 cars were set on fire.
In addition, many commercial establishments have been affected. This includes banks, several public buildings, housing schools, and a tax center. The latter was mostly destroyed during the riots. Also, a total of 13 buses that were parked in the city of Aubervilliers were lit up with Molotov cocktails.
Different personalities in France including athletes, singers, and politicians have voiced their disapproval and sadness caused by the incident. In this instance, French President, Emmanuel Macron, said the shooting was “unjustifiable” and that nothing justifies the death of a young man.
Moreover, Paris Police Chief, Laurent Nunez said that the investigation is still ongoing, but still revealed an official report regarding the incident. In this context, the officer implied in the case shot the young man as he refused to follow police instructions.
“This vehicle made a first refusal to comply, then it was blocked in the flow of traffic where there was a new control attempt by the two police officers, At that time the driver, who had first turned off the engine, restarted the vehicle, then left. It was in this context that the policeman used his firearm.”
Macron himself and authorities have made asked citizens for calm in order to proceed with the solving of the case. Because of this, 350 officials, along with the firefighters’ brigade, have been deployed to control the scene in Nanterre.
