Elon Musk, the billionaire founder of SpaceX and Tesla, has commented on the surprising ability of protesters in France to obtain a large number of firearms. He raised questions about the supply chains and access points that might explain how so many weapons appeared in the hands of demonstrators, suggesting that some of these firearms could have come from illegal channels or have been diverted from legitimate sources.
According to Musk, gun ownership for ordinary citizens in Europe is tightly regulated, but not completely prohibited. He emphasized that a few factors could contribute to the availability of weapons for protesters, including possible theft, illicit smuggling, or exploitation of gaps in enforcement. His remarks pointed to a broader concern about how weapon access intersects with public demonstrations and social unrest in modern Europe.
Beyond the weapon question, the protests in Paris and other cities continued for a fifth day, sparked by the killing of a 17-year-old male with Franco-Algerian heritage who did not comply with a traffic stop conducted by highway patrol officers. Reports indicated that the officer involved in the incident was detained and placed under custody as investigators pursued accountability and a thorough review of the encounter.
The demonstrations were marked by significant unrest. Authorities reported a substantial number of arrests, and many storefronts were damaged during the clashing moments. Rioters set numerous vehicles alight and caused structural damage in several districts, drawing reaction from residents and observers who called for calm and lawful conduct amidst the turmoil.
In the wake of the teenager’s death, the United Nations urged the French government to address concerns about racism and discrimination within policing practices. The call highlighted a broader conversation about how law enforcement interacts with minority communities and the steps that can be taken to build trust and protect human rights while maintaining public safety.
Earlier in the day, officials noted that more than 600 protesters had been taken into custody in connection with the policing incident, underscoring the scale of the response and the ongoing tension between demonstrators and authorities. The evolving situation prompted ongoing discussions among city leaders, security services, and civil society groups about how to resolve grievances, prevent further violence, and ensure accountability for any misconduct on both sides.