French police brace for unrest as yellow vests prepare to join New Year’s celebrations
PARIS – France is deploying more than 147,000 security forces nationwide to gird for New Year’s Eve unrest as yellow vest protesters prepare to join the public revelry.
The Interior Ministry said in a statement issued Sunday that the heavy security measures are needed because of a “high terrorist threat” and concerns about “non-declared protests.”
WATCH: Yellow vest protesters denounce Emmanuel Macron, media in 7th weekend of demonstrations


READ MORE: Driver killed in southern France after crashing into ‘yellow vest’ protesters’ road block
Police in Paris say they will put a security perimeter around the Champs-Elysees, the site of an annual New Year’s Eve light show and celebration. Anti-government protesters angry over taxes and President Emmanuel Macron’s pro-business policies are planning to be on the famed avenue.
The Interior Ministry says extra security across France will focus on popular gathering places, public transportation, roads and shopping areas.
WATCH: French police officer pulls gun on ‘yellow vest’ protesters at Champs Elysees
Previous New Year’s Eves in France have produced burned cars and other disorder.
© 2018 The Canadian Press
Editor's Picks

Catholic Church abuse: Canada's dark history and how to move forward

How old is too old? Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders vie for the Oval Office

Canadian captured in Syria admits to role in gruesome ISIS execution videos

Solicitor-client privilege is at the heart of questions on SNC-Lavalin affair. Here's how it works

As RCMP investigated casino money laundering, police distrust of B.C. government grew

Canadian women fleeing ISIS territory surrender to U.S.-backed forces in Syria

‘BCLC could have stopped this’: Former casino investigators question whether officials unwilling to stop criminal activity

Comments
Want to discuss? Please read our Commenting Policy first.