Mayors’ anti-violence rally leads to a decrease in France riots

Following five days of violent protests in response to the shooting of teenager Nahel M during a police traffic stop, the riots in France appear to be calming. Sunday night witnessed a decrease in violence and a lower number of arrests.

President Emmanuel Macron has instructed the interior ministry to maintain a significant police presence on the streets. Mayors have organized rallies outside town halls to condemn the violence and looting. While the situation has improved, authorities remain cautious and are not declaring a complete return to normalcy. President Macron has requested a massive deployment of around 45,000 officers across the country to ensure a peaceful environment.

The number of arrests, cars set on fire, and damaged buildings has significantly decreased. The mayors’ association has expressed concern about the serious unrest, targeting symbols of the republic with extreme violence. One act of violence involved an attack on the home of a suburban Paris mayor, resulting in injuries to his family.

The family of Nahel has called for an end to the violence, emphasizing the need for changes in the laws regarding lethal force during traffic stops. They disapprove of a fundraising campaign for the police officer involved in Nahel’s shooting, which has attracted criticism from politicians.

President Macron will meet with mayors from affected areas to address the situation. Additionally, a fireman died while attempting to extinguish cars set ablaze in an underground car park, although there is no confirmed connection to the ongoing violence.

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