France: Violent unrest continues in Nantes and Paris suburbs July 5 /update 1

Event

Violent unrest broke out in Nantes (Loire-Atlantique department) on Thursday, July 5, for the third consecutive night following the fatal shooting of a man while trying to avoid a traffic stop on July 3. Officials reported that 52 cars and several buildings were set ablaze on July 5, as unrest continued through the night and early hours of July 6 (local time) Four people were arrested in Nantes, and more than a dozen people were arrested in other suburban areas overnight on July 5. Youths reportedly threw Molotov cocktails at police and set dumpsters on fire in Garges-lès-Gonesse (Val d'Oise department) on July 5. Continued protests are possible in Nantes and in Parisian suburban areas. Increased security measures and an enhanced police presence are to be anticipated in these areas in the coming hours and days.

Context

Violent unrest has been reported nightly in Nantes, especially in the Breil neighborhood, since July 3. On July 3, a 22-year old man was shot and killed by a policeman in Nantes in a traffic stop. Police reported that the man was resisting arrest, a fact disputed by witnesses of the incident. In a similar incident, two teens were electrocuted while hiding from police in 2005, an event that led to nationwide riots.

Advice

Individuals in the abovementioned areas are advised to remain vigilant, adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.