France: Further protests, clashes likely in cities nationwide through at least early July following June 27 police shooting of teenager in Nanterre /update 2

Event

Increased security and further protests are likely in a number of cities across France through at least early July in reaction to the June 27 killing of a teenager in Nanterre by police. As of June 28, protests have occurred in several cities, including Bordeaux, Toulouse, Lille, Lyon, and Paris for the second consecutive day. In some locations, demonstrations turned violent with protesters setting fires to trash cans and vehicles, as well as clashing with police.

Disruptions to transport have been reported in several cities, including Lyon. In Lille, the unrest prompted disruptions to Llevia bus routes L3, L8, 34, 35, and 36, which had to be diverted. Similar disruptions were reported on Bordeaux's TBMbus 7 and 3. The Interior Ministry has increased its security presence in Paris, deploying 2,000 police officers. Several arrests have been made in connection with the unrest.

Authorities will certainly increase security in any urban areas where related unrest occurs in the coming days. Protest activity will prompt localized transport and business disruptions in the impacted area. Additional clashes between police and protesters are likely.

Context

Riots started in Nanterre on June 27 after police shot and killed a local teenager earlier in the day. Reports indicate that officers shot the individual after he allegedly refused to comply with unspecified orders. Demonstrators took to the streets soon after the incident, setting several fires and engaging in localized vandalism. Authorities deployed riot police and firefighters, which prompted clashes. Riots spread to a number of other suburbs in the Ile-de-France region, including Noisy-le-Sec and Saint-Denis, and have now spread to several major metropolitan areas across France. In Aulnay-sous-Bois, a bus was set alight, and in Mantes-la-Jolie, part of the town hall was destroyed by fire. Authorities reported a number of minor casualties.

Advice

Avoid all protests due to the potential for violence. Leave the area at the first sign of a security disturbance; if unable to do so, seek shelter in a secure non-governmental building until it is safe to depart. Strictly heed the instructions of local authorities. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement personnel.