LIVE - Death of Quentin Deranque in Lyon: six suspects identified but no arrests at this stage, government accuses Jeune Garde
Quentin Deranque, a young nationalist activist, was killed in Lyon, with six suspects identified but no arrests made, leading to government accusations against the Jeune Garde.
The tragic death of Quentin Deranque, a young nationalist activist, has ignited significant political controversy in France. As the investigation unfolds, six suspects have been identified, yet law enforcement has not made any arrests at this point. In the wake of the incident, members of the political left, such as Mathilde Panot, have expressed concern over the rising influence of the identity collective, Némésis, urging that they be disallowed from participating in political gatherings to prevent further violence.
Jordan Bardella, the president of the National Rally, has emphasized the deliberate nature of Deranque's death, countering any assertions that it was an accident. He cited the prosecutor's findings regarding the severity of the attack and the ongoing investigation into homicide charges against the assailants. This heightened focus on violence against activists complicates the national discourse on political extremism and the responses from various political factions.
As tensions rise in the country, the tragedy underscores the challenges facing the French government regarding security and public safety at political events. The accusations directed at the Jeune Garde signal a deeper concern about political polarization, raising questions about state responsibility in preventing violence and safeguarding all citizens during political activism. The case is likely to further intensify the division within French politics and could lead to broader calls for regulation of extremist groups.