French police have fired tear gas at protesters rallying in Paris against a bill that would make it a criminal offence to film or take photos of police with malevolent intent. Clashes began after some in the crowd threw stones and fireworks at police. Cars and a newspaper kiosk were set on fire and dozens were arrested. Opponents say the bill undermines press freedom to document police brutality.
But the government says it will help protect officers from online abuse.
On Saturday, demonstrations were also being held in Bordeaux, Lille, Montpellier, Nantes and other cities across France.Earlier this week, footage emerged of three white policemen racially abusing and beating a black music producer.
The images, which show Michel Zecler being kicked and punched at his Paris studio, have shocked the nation.
President Emmanuel Macron described the incident as "unacceptable" and "shameful", demanding quick government proposals how to rebuild trust between police and citizens.
The officers seen in the video have since been suspended and are under investigation.
Separately, the government has ordered police to provide a full report after they violently dismantled a makeshift migrant camp in Paris earlier this week, clashing with migrants and activists.
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