Two Opposing Protests Mark Anniversary of Teen's Death in Crépol
Tensions rise in Romans-sur-Isère as far-right and left-wing groups hold separate demonstrations over the 2023 killing of 16-year-old Thomas.
- Thomas, a 16-year-old, was fatally stabbed at a village dance in Crépol in November 2023, and his death remains under investigation with 14 individuals charged but no identified perpetrator.
- Two protests are being held in Romans-sur-Isère: one by far-right group 'Justice for the Ours,' and another by left-wing organizations opposing the far-right's narrative.
- The far-right group links Thomas's death to immigration, while left-wing protesters denounce what they see as racist exploitation of the tragedy.
- The demonstrations were initially banned by local authorities over fears of conflict but were later permitted by a court ruling on freedom of assembly grounds.
- Authorities have deployed additional police units and imposed restrictions on weapons, chemicals, and fireworks to prevent potential violence.