- By Robert Plummer
- BBC News
1 hour ago
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During the recent riots in France, firecrackers were a popular weapon
France has banned the sale, possession and transport of all fireworks during the upcoming Bastille Day celebrations.
The government issued a decree on Sunday banning “pyrotechnic objects” for celebrations on July 14, France’s national day.
The move comes after riots sparked by the killing of 17-year-old Nahel M by police officers in Nanterre last month.
However, the ban does not apply to official fireworks organized by local authorities.
“In order to prevent the risk of serious disturbances to public order during the July 14 celebrations, the sale, carrying, transport and use of pyrotechnic articles and fireworks on the national territory are prohibited until July 15 inclusive,” the statement said Decree published in the French Official Journal.
Firecrackers were a popular weapon during the week of riots, which saw France’s worst urban violence in almost 20 years.
And even in normal times, what’s happening in public squares and streets on the evening of Bastille Day has often been disrupted in recent years by young people throwing firecrackers.
Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne said in addition to restrictions on firecrackers, a “massive” security presence would be deployed to keep the peace and “protect the French during these two sensitive days”.
She told Le Parisien newspaper that many people were “quite worried” about the possibility of new incidents of violence during the Bastille Day.
According to official figures, more than 3,700 people have been taken into police custody in connection with the recent protests, including at least 1,160 minors.
Bastille Day marks the start of the French Revolution more than 200 years ago.