Interior Minister clarifies law enforcement approach

The Interior Minister faced questioning from the Senate's law commission as a new proposal to sanction vandals was under discussion. This provided the minister with a chance to explain the government's strategy for addressing urban violence in the context of ongoing high school protests.

Distinguishing order maintenance and urban violence

During the hearing, the minister emphasized the difference between maintaining order and combating urban violence. He noted that the 2021 framework for maintaining order and the 2025 framework for urban violence address different operational strategies. He argued that acts like violence against education staff and destruction of public buildings have shifted the high school movement into urban violence.

Minister defends peaceful protests

The minister stated that law enforcement does not intervene when high school students peacefully demand their rights. He clarified that police action only occurs when there are acts of violence, and he denied claims that the government is repressing student demands. He emphasized that students are protected by law enforcement forces.

Critique of 'de-escalation' terminology

Laurent Nuñez criticized the use of the term "de-escalation" by media and researchers, arguing that it blurs the distinction between maintaining order and handling urban violence. He stated that there is no de-escalation in the face of rioters, as political authorities cannot ignore acts like window smashing or attacks on people.

Suspension of loudness grenades

Following the injury of a 15-year-old student during a demonstration, the minister announced the suspension of a specific type of loudness grenade used by the national police. He emphasized that other intermediate armaments remain available, and an investigation is underway to determine how the grenade was used and whether it was in accordance with regulations.

Investigations into law enforcement actions

The minister revealed that 36 investigations are currently underway by the IGPN, with 10 cases involving serious injuries, including disfiguring injuries. He highlighted the independence of the IGPN and IGGN, which are directed by judges, and assured that no one in the internal security forces believes they are protected from these investigations.

Senate to consider new bill

The Senate will review a proposed bill titled vandals-payers on October 27. This bill would allow the state to recover costs from damage caused during gatherings, even without a criminal conviction. The minister outlined the government's plan for civil liability based on negligence, though the Council of State suggested revisions to the proposal.

Focus on dispersal orders and responsibility

The minister acknowledged challenges in implementing the bill, particularly regarding dispersal orders. He emphasized the goal of achieving joint responsibility among participants in gatherings while ensuring the right to demonstrate remains protected. This issue will be further addressed in an upcoming report by the senatorial mission on maintaining order.