Chaos on Dunkirk Beach as Migrants Attack Police
Police faced a violent onslaught on Wednesday night at Dunkirk. Officers from the Police Nationale and CRS tried to stop over 90 migrants from launching small boats to cross the English Channel. The migrants, armed with sharpened sticks, wooden clubs, and rocks, charged fiercely at the officers.
Officers Forced to Use Tear Gas Amid Rock and Stick Assault
The situation quickly turned brutal. Police had to don helmets and fire tear gas to defend themselves against a barrage of missiles and rocks. Several officers were injured, suffering cuts and bruises.
“They charged at us, launching missiles and rocks. We had to retreat, put on our helmets, and draw our batons to protect ourselves,” an officer said on condition of anonymity. “The missiles just kept coming.”
New French Law Ties Police Hands, Migrant Crossings Surge
This is not the first violent clash. The problem worsened after a French law change banning police from detaining migrants for 24 hours. Previously, this helped curb illegal crossings, but now officials feel handicapped.
“Before the law changed, we could arrest and detain those who tried to make the crossing for 24 hours. That’s been taken away from us. We work day and night, sometimes two weeks straight, trying to stop crossings,” the officer revealed. “The gangs keep changing locations and tactics, making it even tougher.”
French Police Brace for Brutal Battles as Migrant Arrivals Soar
Despite the odds, French authorities have intensified patrols to intercept boats before they hit the water. Officers often wade into the sea, facing attacks from migrants throwing rocks and projectiles.
The officer added the pressure increased with rising migrant arrivals from Italy, heightening tensions. “They get very hostile when stopped. We puncture the boats and sometimes have to wade in, but we come under attack,” he said.
Police continue to lock down key coastal spots to prevent boats from launching. An update on the injured officers is awaited as the tense operation rolls on.
