New Footage Video Shows Police Attacks on 2018 Yellow Vests Protesters
French broadcaster reported Friday, ahead of the trial of nine riot police officers, that the footage shows protesters and a journalist being struck with batons by officers from France’s CRS riot police inside a Burger King on the third day of nationwide demonstrations.
The video dates back to December 1, 2018, when heavy tear gas filled Place Charles-de-Gaulle, prompting dozens of demonstrators to seek refuge inside the fast-food restaurant.
"Each time I watch the videos again where the police hit me, I break down in tears," said Manon, one of the protesters. She recalled being overwhelmed by tear gas before entering the restaurant with her partner. "We were drowning in the smoke, it was impossible to breathe, until we heard this voice: 'Come take refuge here.'"
Minutes later, CRS officers entered the restaurant to clear the area. Several protesters—including some unidentified individuals—and a journalist were struck with batons in front of the restaurant’s cameras.
Seven years later, Manon is preparing to attend the trial, where the nine officers face up to seven years in prison. Another protester, Olivier, said he was hit 27 times, noting: "Without video, there would not have been a trial. I think it is the element that gives my word weight."
A third demonstrator, Paul, expressed concern that despite the footage, "the accusations are still shifted onto the victims," urging that the case be addressed as part of a broader social issue rather than an isolated incident.
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