Police trying to shut down an underground New Year’s Eve party that was curfew that attracted at least 2,500 people in western France, were attacked by ravers setting fire to a police car and injured officers with bursts of bottles and stones.
Hundreds of vehicles converged on Thursday evening in a hangar in Lieuron, Brittany, to ring in the new year, the regional government said Friday. It said the police were attacked when they tried to stop ravers from installing their party gear.
French corona cases
Friday morning, 2,500 ravers from France and abroad were still partying, surrounded by a reinforced police presence, the regional government said.
Prosecutors considered a range of possible criminal charges. The party took place despite the nationwide curfew from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. in France, intended to discourage public gatherings during the pandemic.
However, partygoers called for understanding after months of nightlife-destroying lockdowns and curfews designed to limit coronavirus infections.
A volunteer from a support group that distributed masks, antivirus gel, and health advice within the techno party said ravers needed to let go. He said ravers tried to stay safe by not sharing a joint or drinks. Their group, Techno +, advised partygoers to isolate themselves for a week and then get tested after attending the rave. The group also said the disused hangar was airy and well-ventilated.
France has reported more than 64,000 virus-related deaths since the start of the pandemic.