Around 1,000 people gathered in the French capital over the weekend to protest the death of a Mauritanian immigrant worker who died in police custody earlier this month, renewing calls for accountability and justice in cases of alleged police brutality.
The protest followed the death of El Hacen Diarra (35), who was violently arrested on January 14 in Paris’ 20th arrondissement. The arrest was captured on video by local residents and widely shared on social media, sparking public outrage.
Silent protest, strong demands
The demonstration, held under police supervision, was conducted largely in silence and attended by Diarra’s family. Protesters carried placards reading “Justice for El Hacen Diarra” and “No justice, no peace,” responding to calls from anti-racism and anti–police violence groups.
Participants demanded accountability for Diarra’s death, which occurred shortly after he was taken into custody.
Family alleges police violence
According to police, Diarra was detained for allegedly resisting arrest, possessing “a brown substance resembling cannabis,” and carrying forged administrative documents. His family, however, has alleged that he was subjected to excessive police violence outside the migrant workers’ hostel where he lived.
Footage reviewed at the request of the family shows two police officers punching a man lying on the ground. In the video, Diarra can be heard repeatedly saying, “You are suffocating me,” moments before losing consciousness.
Body cameras not working
Paris prosecutors confirmed that the officers’ body cameras were not operational at the time of the arrest due to depleted batteries, a detail that has further fuelled public anger and mistrust.
An official investigation has been opened under the charge of “causing death through intentional violence by a person representing public authority,” a serious offence under French law.
Political response and investigation
French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez opposed calls for the temporary suspension of the officers involved, stating that due process must be followed. Diarra’s family, however, has demanded their immediate detention pending the outcome of the investigation.
The case has drawn comparisons to other high-profile deaths in police custody in France and has reignited debate over law enforcement practices, treatment of migrants, and the use of force.