Police trying to shut down an underground New Year’s Eve party that drew at least 2,500 people to western France were attacked by rioters who set fire to a police vehicle and injured officers with glass and stone volleyball.
Hundreds of vehicles began converging on a hangar in Lieuron, Brittany, on Thursday night to spend the new year, the regional government said on Friday. Police are said to have been attacked when they tried to stop the rioters from installing their party equipment.
French crown cases
On Friday morning, 2,500 ravers from France and abroad were still having parties, surrounded by a strong police presence, the regional government said.
Prosecutors were considering a number of possible criminal charges. The party took place despite France’s national brake from 20:00 to 6:00, in order to discourage public gatherings during the pandemic.
Party participants, however, called for an agreement after months of blockages and instructions for destroying nightlife designed to limit coronavirus infections.
A volunteer with an aid group distributing masks, anti-virus gel and health tips at the technology party said the ravers must be released. He said the raiders are trying to stay safe by not sharing joints or drinks. Their group, Techno +, advised the partygoers to isolate themselves for a week and then be tested after participating in the rave. The group also said that the disused hangar was airy and well ventilated.
France has reported more than 64,000 deaths from the virus since the beginning of the pandemic.