Charlie Hebdo: Niger protesters shout ‘Down with France’

‘Down with France’ shout anti-Charlie Hebdo protesters as violence in Niger escalates.

Hundreds took part in violent demonstrations in the capital Niamey in retaliation for the publication of satirical cartoons of the Prophet Mohammad in Charlie Hebdo magazine.

The latest protest in the former French colony was sparked by the authorities’ decision to ban a meeting of Muslim leaders. Police sources have confirmed four preachers suspected of convening the meeting were later arrested.

Demonstrators threw rocks and set fire to a number of churches in the capital. A police station was also attacked and two police cars set on fire.

No casualties have been reported as a result of Saturday’s rallies. However five people were killed in similar protests in the capital a day earlier.

The French embassy has warned its citizens to remain indoors.

There are also reports of violent demonstrations in regional towns. Churches are said to have been set on fire in Maradi, 600 kilometres east of Niamey, and in the eastern town of Goure. 

In the latter town, a residence of the foreign minister is also believed to have been set alight.

SOURCE: euronews