Four French police officers have been suspended after a video of the violent arrest of a Black music generator in Paris went viral.
Pictures first shared on social media by French news website Loopsider showed officers repeatedly punching a man during police action on Saturday.
French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin has placed the officers involved in the case to be excluded from duty.
“I believe that the disciplinary actions can be sent as soon as possible,” the minister tweeted, figuring that the Inspectorate General of the National Police (IGPN) is looking into accusations of police misconduct.
The Paris police officials said in a report that IGPN will also seek to establish the exact details surrounding the man’s arrest. The images drew wide blame on social media from politicians and high-profile sports stars.
The incident comes just days after French police were criticised for forcefully evacuating tents from a migrant protest in a Paris square.
On Tuesday, French legislators also approved a controversial “global security” law that would make it an offence to film and identify police officers online if there is intent to harm.
Human rights groups and media projections say the law would allow police violence to go unaccounted for, but police unions and members of President Emmanuel Macron’s government say the bill is unavoidable to protect police officers from warnings and harassment.
Prime Minister Jean Castex intends to refer the matter to the Constitutional Council himself, saying on Thursday that the proposed legislation will be examined.
Johnson, an alumnus of the University of Arizona and Georgetown University, is a distinguished journalist inspired by his father. His bold personality and commitment to truth have led him to various media outlets and international seminars, showcasing his exceptional skills and dedication to authentic reporting across the United States.
