Shootout at Kurdish cultural centre: Paris shooter was on bail, French party calls it racist attack

Violent protests erupted in Paris after a gunman killed three people at a Kurdish cultural centre and a Kurdish cafe in central Paris on Friday

CHENNAI | Updated: 23 December, 2022 11:43 pm IST
Protests erupted at various places in Paris over the attack on Kurdish Cultural Centre

The 69-year-old gunman, who opened fire on a Kurdish cultural centre and a hairdressing salon, in Paris on Friday was released on bail, according to the French daily Le Monde.

In a shocking incident in broad daylight in a Kurdish-majority neighbourhood of Paris, three people were killed and three others were seriously injured.

The attacker is identified as a retired train driver who attempted murders in 2016 and 2021, French broadcaster FR24 reported.

La France Insoumise, a left-leaning French political party, termed the attack an act of racism.

In a tweet, French President Emmanuel Macron said, “The Kurds of France have been the target of a heinous attack in the heart of Paris. Thoughts go out to the victims, the people fighting for their lives, their families and their loved ones. Recognition to our law enforcement for their courage and composure.”

The incident sparked tension and clashes erupted, demanding justice for the Kurds. In a tweet in French, Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne on Friday said, “Thoughts and full support to the victims of the fatal shooting in Paris and their loved ones. An investigation has been launched.Gratitude to the police officers of @prefpolice who arrested the alleged perpetrator of this heinous act, to @PompiersParis for their engagement. @GDarmanin goes on site.”

The gunman was arrested by the French police from a salon, where he entered after detonation at a Kurdish cultural centre, French broadcaster FR24 reported.

The 69-year-old, who also developed injuries in the face, was first admitted to a local hospital. No sign of a terror motive was found by the investigators until the story was filed.

Speaking to reporters, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said that the French police have been instructed to reinforce protection in the locality of the Kurdish community after the shocking detonation on Friday.

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