France bans fireworks sales amid fears of renewed violence over Bastille Day weekend
France has banned the sale, possession and transport of fireworks over the Bastille Day weekend next week amid fears of renewed riots.
Protesters have been filmed launching fireworks during the wave of violent riots that gripped the country following the fatal shooting of a 17-year-old teenager by a police officer in late June.
“In order to prevent the risk of serious public disorder during the July 14th festivities, the sale, carrying, transport and use of pyrotechnic articles and fireworks are prohibited throughout France until July 15th inclusive,” according to the decree published in the official French government journal on Sunday.
Bastille Day, which is France’s national day, is celebrated annually on July 14 with spectacular firework displays organized countrywide.
The decree, which came into effect immediately, does not apply to professionals or local areas organizing firework displays for the holiday.
France’s Prime Minister, Elisabeth Borne, had promised “massive measures to protect French people” during July 13-14 which she described as “sensitive days” in an interview with Le Parisien newspaper, published Saturday
France has banned the sale, possession and transport of fireworks over the Bastille Day weekend next week amid fears of renewed riots. Protesters have been filmed launching fireworks during the wave of violent riots that gripped the country following the fatal shooting of a 17-year-old teenager by a police officer in late June. “In order to prevent the risk…