Interior minister praises law enforcement

Laurent Nuñez, the minister of the Interior, thanked law enforcement in an email dated November 2, recognizing their "remarkable commitment" during recent demonstrations. He acknowledged the challenges they have faced in maintaining order amid heightened tensions.

Violence described as intense and unrestrained

Nuñez described the social unrest since September as having led to "intense, unrestrained, and unreserved violence," which has targeted people, educational staff, property, shops, public buildings, and law enforcement personnel, many of whom have suffered injuries.

Law enforcement faces extreme fatigue and provocations

The minister highlighted the "extreme fatigue of bodies and minds" experienced by law enforcement, as well as the "constant provocations" and "confrontations that for some resemble attempted murder." He noted the difficult conditions under which officers have been operating.

Law enforcement enables constitutional rights

Nuñez stated that law enforcement has "enabled the expression" of the freedom to demonstrate, a "fundamental right protected by our Constitution." He acknowledged that some officers have been mobilized during their rest or vacation time, often at the expense of their family and personal well-being.

Criticism of law enforcement's interventions

The minister mentioned criticisms of law enforcement, including the violence of their interventions, which have resulted in serious injuries or maiming of demonstrators, including minors, since the beginning of the student movement in mid-September and during mobilizations on October 17 and 24. The National Police Inspectorate (IGPN) has been given several dozen investigations into these incidents.

Praise for law enforcement's dedication

Nuñez praised police officers, gendarmes, firefighters, intelligence services, prefecture and sub-prefecture staff, and central administration staff for being "on the ground or fully focused on your task, without being diverted from your mission in service of the general interest." He assured his support and defense of their "immense commitment and professionalism."

Defending law enforcement against criticism

In a separate statement, Nuñez defended the actions of police and gendarmes in the face of criticism, denounced the violence committed at the margins of the demonstrations, and highlighted the cost of three consecutive weekends of mobilization.