France Sends Controversial Anti-Riot Police to Martinique Amid Protests

France has deployed a special anti-riot police unit to Martinique, sparking controversy. Despite bans on protests due to violent demonstrations over the high cost of living, large peaceful gatherings have continued. The elite force, banned for 65 years, has been met with opposition from local leaders demanding dialogue instead of force.

France has deployed a controversial anti-riot police unit to the French Caribbean island of Martinique amid ongoing protests against the high cost of living. The elite force, known as the Companies for Republican Security, had been banned for 65 years following fatal riots in 1959.

The police force was dispatched after violent protests erupted, leaving six police officers and one civilian injured. In response, the government imposed protest bans in several municipalities and issued a curfew, but peaceful demonstrations persisted over the weekend.

Local leaders have criticized the deployment, calling for open dialogue instead of heavy-handed measures. Béatrice Bellay, a socialist party representative, argued that the move would only heighten tensions and divert attention from the island's legitimate social issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)