By V4 Agency
Police have reportedly arrested the drug dealer who shot dead an officer during an anti-narcotics operation. Hundreds paid tribute to the murdered officer over the weekend.
Last Wednesday Eric Masson, a 36-year-old officer was killed during a drug raid in Avignon, France. Police have launched a manhunt to locate a drug dealer, his suspected killer, who fled the scene using a kick scooter.
According to press reports, police made arrests on Sunday in Remoulins, near Avignon, catching two men at the toll gates on the motorway. One is presumably the perpetrator, while the other is his accomplice. The two were on their way to Spain. Police have also arrested the driver of the vehicle and an other person assumed to be involved in drug trafficking.
French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin welcomed the arrests. He told BFMTV that the apprehended criminals are all related to drug trade, and they are all under 30 years of age, born in France. The minister said it is highly likely that one of those arrested had shot the on-duty officer.
Meanwhile, hundreds of people gathered at the weekend in front of Avignon’s main police station to pay tribute to their colleague, Eric Masson. The crowd sang La Marseillaise, followed by speeches and several minutes of silence. In Paris, police officers gathered on Champs Élysées to commemorate their deceased colleague.
Right-wing National Rally chief Marine Le Pen has heavily criticised the government after the incident. She stressed that there is no place in President Macron’s France where people can feel safe, adding that the latest incident can be linked to massive immigration.