Parisian merchant testifies about looting experience

Assia Sanaa, a Parisian merchant who owns eight businesses in the city center, testified on Tuesday about her experience defending her stores against looters during the weekend. She was filmed on Sunday, October 18, holding a stick across the door of one of her stores in an attempt to drive away thieves. Four of her eight businesses were looted during the weekend.

Sanaa describes lack of police support

Sanaa described her frustration with the lack of police presence, stating that when she called for help, she was told she was "saturating the phone lines." She recounted having to take matters into her own hands, saying, "Unfortunately, I had to fight, not even alone, because there are seven sales points." She reviewed videos of the incidents and described the events as "very violent."

Sanaa’s testimony gains public attention

Her testimony has gained attention, with her images going viral and leading to her being recognized and praised in the street for her courage. Sanaa exchanged words with the looters, who justified their actions by claiming it was "legitimate" because they could not get certain products and she would be reimbursed. She refuted their claims, stating, "That is false," and emphasized that "it is a society that is beginning to take over on the one that lives honestly."

Government announces aid for looted businesses

The government has announced aid measures for looted businesses, including zero-interest loans, spreading of tax and social charges, partial unemployment coverage, or a support fund for small businesses. Sanaa found these proposals "reassuring" but remained cautious, noting that the measures were "completely unprecedented and very vague." She expressed concerns about the lack of clarity and the potential for "administrative violence."

Sanaa criticizes insurance limitations

Sanaa criticized the "small asterisk" in insurance contracts, which often do not allow for compensation. She mentioned that on two of her sales points, where four windows were damaged, her insurer told her that "prevention did not exist." She expressed frustration, saying, "We will wait until I get looted again to be able to have this recourse, we are walking on our heads."

Sanaa laments bureaucratic delays

Sanaa also lamented the burden of procedures with the police, regretting having to visit different police stations, which caused "a precious loss of time."