French law enforcement is on alert as the football World Cup nears its conclusion. Mayors in several cities have imposed curfews on minors to prevent violence during July 14 celebrations.
As France advances in the competition, Interior Ministry strategists are watching the schedule. They aim to avoid a repeat of the chaos on May 30 after PSG’s Champions League win, which led to more than 400 arrests.
On June 26, after France’s win over Norway, dozens of minors caused unrest in Denain. Children aged 11-12 smashed windows and burned vehicles, according to Yohan Senez, adviser to Mayor Anne-Lise Dufour-Tonini.
Several towns have therefore introduced curfews for those under 16. These measures are being challenged in court by the Human Rights League. Public order units will also have to manage the July 14 parade in Paris and a possible high-risk semi-final.
