In a night marred by violence, a staggering 249 police officers and gendarmes suffered injuries, according to the Ministry of the Interior. The turmoil unfolded amidst what the French interior minister described as “rare violence,” with emergency services demonstrating commendable bravery in their response.
The aftermath this morning in Nanterre presents a starkly different scene. Where yesterday’s streets were littered with burned, vandalized, and overturned cars, today reveals the aftermath of looting that occurred in various parts of the Paris suburb.
The damage is evident: a broken-into gas station with shattered glass strewn across the floor and smashed security cameras. Across the street, a small tobacco shop lies in ruins. Such acts of looting have extended beyond Nanterre, with incidents reported on Rue de Rivoli, near the Louvre Museum and the Champs Elysées.
The situation represents a significant escalation in unrest, with no signs of abating. Overnight, a depot in Aubervilliers witnessed the targeting of twelve buses, resulting in severe damage. RATP, the city’s transport company, strongly condemned the attack, emphasizing the essential role these assets play in public services. Passengers are now being warned about the significant disruptions to bus and tram services.
Transport Minister Clement Beaune expressed his dismay on Twitter, highlighting the impact on the most vulnerable members of society who rely on these public services. Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne echoed these sentiments, describing the events in France as “unbearable and inexcusable” following a meeting with ministers this morning. She reiterated her unwavering support for the police and other emergency services, recognizing their courageous efforts amid ongoing unrest.
Addressing concerns of alleged racism within the police force, a prominent member of one of France’s main police unions staunchly denied the accusations. Thierry Clair, the deputy secretary-general of UNSAD-Police, dismissed claims that the force targets individuals based on their skin color. He emphasized that people are controlled and arrested based on factual considerations rather than racial profiling. While acknowledging isolated incidents of misconduct that led to sanctions or dismissals, Clair asserted that such behavior was marginal, comparable to what can be found in any organization or institution.
Clair further asserted that his colleagues hail from diverse backgrounds, with many forming relationships with individuals of different races and religions. He unequivocally stated that it would be a fallacy to label the entire police force as racist, as these few instances do not represent the overall character of the institution.
As tensions continue to simmer amidst the ongoing unrest, France grapples with the consequences of a complex situation that demands careful attention and a commitment to address underlying issues of trust and social cohesion.