In Nantes, the parade is placed under close surveillance, after the damage and violence against the police, recorded during the previous days of mobilization. Monday, May 1, the direction of the demonstration was reversed, and drones are used to monitor the procession.
Flag in hand, sign proudly raised and a sprig of lily of the valley, there are several thousand to gather Monday morning May 1, in Nantes (Loire-Atlantique), a city used to eventful parades. In recent weeks, scenes of violence have taken place, so in everyone’s mind, there is this fear of overflow. “There is always a minority who are there to do battle more nastily with the police”, said a protester. They came with family. They know the risks and have prepared accordingly.
Four mobile force units deployed
Others are divided: should we legitimize this violence or not? “It discredits the movement a little, but on the other hand, it also shows the determination of some, and how far we can go”, says a young man. To deter thugs, four mobile force units will be deployed. An unprecedented system has been put in place, according to the Ministry of the Interior. Drones will also fly over the city center. For an employee, we must also fear police violence: “When we demonstrate quietly, when we take tear gas, LBD shots, the violence comes mainly from the police.” Nearly 20,000 people are expected this Monday in Nantes.
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