Calls for demonstrations in Besançon

Calls for demonstrations on Saturday, October 24 in Besançon have been circulating on social media for several days. These calls have prompted official responses from local authorities.

Prohibition of gatherings in Besançon

The prefecture of the Doubs decided to prohibit gatherings in the city center of Besançon, the capital of the Comtat region. This decision came after the state services noted that no demonstration declaration had been submitted, no organizer had been identified, and no route had been defined for the procession.

Legal basis for the ban

According to the prefecture, the lack of these elements prevents the necessary conditions to ensure the safety of a protest gathering. The statement emphasized that demonstrating is a constitutionally guaranteed right, but it must be exercised within a legal framework aimed at ensuring the safety of participants and preventing public order disturbances.

Time and area of the ban

The prefect of the Doubs, Rémi Bastille, has imposed a ban from 9 a.m. to midnight on Saturday, October 24, in the city center of Besançon. The affected area is specified in a plan annexed to the prefectural decree.

Penalties for violating the ban

People who do not respect this ban are exposed to a fixed penalty of 135 euros. Additional restrictions have also been extended throughout the Doubs department from Friday, October 23 at 8 p.m. to Sunday, October 25 at 8 p.m.

Extended restrictions and prohibited items

During this period, the prefecture prohibits the transport of portable fuel containers and other flammable substances, pyrotechnic devices, and weapons by purpose. This category includes any object that can constitute a weapon whenever it is used to kill, injure, or threaten.

Prohibited personal protective equipment

In Besançon and Montbéliard, the wearing of personal protective equipment, including helmets, masks, and safety goggles, is also prohibited unless justified by a legitimate reason.

Mobilization of security forces

To enforce these provisions, internal security forces will be mobilized, supported by a mobile forces unit. The prefect of the Doubs has called for "each individual's responsibility" to regulate Saturday's events and prevent potential public order disturbances.