French Interior Minister seeks justice after CRS effigy burned in Strasbourg

French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez has called for legal action following the burning of a giant cardboard effigy representing a CRS police officer during a demonstration in Strasbourg on November 5. The effigy, which featured the inscription “CRS SS” on its chest, was set on fire amidst a protest involving between 10,000 and 26,000 people.

Following the incident, the Prefect of Bas-Rhin, Amaury de Saint-Quentin, announced he would refer the matter to the judiciary. Political figures have reacted with widespread condemnation, describing the act as a “message of hate” and a “call to hate” against law enforcement officers. Some officials, including Senator Elsa Schalck and Deputy Patrick Hetzel, characterized the event as an outrage against public authority.

The burning occurred during a period of heightened tension between protesters and security forces in France, following demonstrations regarding the cost of living and student unrest.