New Demonstration in Paris Demands Justice for El Hacen Diarra’s Death in Police Custody
Paris, February 21 – Hundreds of people took to the streets of Paris on Saturday afternoon, more than a month after the death of El Hacen Diarra in police custody, to demand answers and justice. The demonstration, attended by approximately 200 to 300 individuals, highlighted the family’s ongoing quest for clarity regarding the circumstances of his passing.
The protest began on Boulevard Barbès in the 18th arrondissement, with participants carrying banners that read, “Justice and truth for El Hacen Diarra, murdered by the police.” Among the demonstrators were various collectives and members of the NPA (New Anticapitalist Party).
Family Demands Explanations for “Cold-Blooded” Killing
Moussa Diarra, a cousin of the deceased, addressed the press, stating, “We wanted to hold this demonstration to get explanations from the police officers who killed him in cold blood, to get justice.” The family has consistently alleged police violence as the cause of death.
El Hacen Diarra, a 35-year-old Mauritanian national, died during the night of January 15-16 while in police custody. He had been arrested at the foot of his workers’ hostel. A video, reportedly filmed by a neighbor, shows two police officers, one of whom is seen kneeling and striking the man, who was on the ground, twice.
Judicial Investigation Underway, Concerns Over Missing Footage
Five days after the incident, the Paris public prosecutor’s office announced the opening of a judicial investigation into “voluntary violence resulting in death by a person holding public authority.”
A significant point of contention for the family and activists is the absence of footage from the body cameras worn by the intervening police officers. The judicial authority stated that these cameras “were not functional, due to their battery discharge, which was verified by the officer,” without providing further details about the officer’s role. This explanation has raised questions among those seeking justice for Diarra.
Previous Protests and Community Outcry
This latest protest follows a larger demonstration on January 25, when several thousand people marched in Paris to support Diarra’s family and demand a thorough investigation into his death. The community’s persistent calls for transparency underscore the gravity of the situation and the desire for accountability.
The death of El Hacen Diarra has become a focal point for discussions on police conduct and the treatment of individuals in custody, prompting renewed calls for systemic changes and greater oversight of law enforcement practices.
The investigation is ongoing, and the family, along with their supporters, remains committed to pursuing justice and ensuring that the full truth behind El Hacen Diarra’s death is brought to light.
