French watchdog investigates allegations of police violence during riots

A police officer holding an LBD rubber defensive bullet launcher during a demonstration in Nantes in March 2023. Officers are under investigation for using excessive force, including the use of LBDs, in various situations during the riots at the end of June and beginning of July. © Loic Venance/AFP

The IGPN, the internal disciplinary body of the French police, has opened nearly 30 investigations into the use of force during the five days of rioting that followed the deadly police shooting of 17-year-old Nahel Merzouk during a traffic stop at the end of June.

The IGPN quickly opened an investigation into the officer who shot Merzouk, and he was taken into custody.