Feb 18 • 15:40 UTC 🇫🇮 Finland Ilta-Sanomat

Death of a 23-year-old man during a protest causes an uproar – 11 arrested

A 23-year-old far-right activist was violently attacked during a protest in France, leading to his death and the arrest of eleven individuals.

On Thursday night in Lyon, a 23-year-old far-right activist named Quentin Deranque was brutally assaulted by a masked group while attending a protest. Deranque was at the scene to provide security for a feminist rally against a visit from leftist European Parliament member Rima Hassani. Reports indicate that he suffered severe head injuries during the attack, which ultimately led to his death on Saturday. This incident has sparked significant outrage in France and brought attention to the ongoing tensions between far-right and far-left groups. The incident occurred during a time of heightened political polarization in France, as various factions engage in vocal confrontations over social and political issues. Deranque's death has drawn sharp reactions from various political figures, with many condemning the violence that led to his demise. Rima Hassani, the left-wing politician targeted by the protesters, represents a party categorized as far-left, and her presence was a catalyst for the clash between opposing ideologies. In the wake of this tragic event, eleven individuals, including an aide to a far-left MP, have been detained as authorities investigate their possible involvement in the attack. The widespread sharing of videos depicting the violence on social media has further fueled discussions about the safety of political activism in France, the right to protest, and the concerning rise of political violence. This incident raises significant questions about the state of civic discourse and the potential implications for future protests and political gatherings in the country.

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