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Videos posted on social networks show a policeman hitting a protester tackled on the ground, on the sidelines of a demonstration of "yellow vests" in Paris, January 18, 2020. Video screenshot by Pat Rica / Facebbok

It happened on Saturday January 18 on the sidelines of a demonstration of "yellow vests" in Paris. Videos posted on social networks show a police officer hitting a protester stuck on the ground. Two investigations were opened against the agent, less than 24 hours after the facts. But the protester involved will also have to deal with justice.

Clément F., 20, will soon appear before a criminal court and be tried in particular for " violence against persons responsible for public authority and rebellion ".

According to a police source cited by Agence France-Presse, the demonstrator threw a glass bottle against a police officer, hit one of his colleagues and he spat blood in his face, while declaring that he had AIDS.

It was at that time that the reaction officer allegedly slapped him and punched him, according to his version of the facts. In the images, we also see him holding him, with his knee, belly on the ground and hands behind his back, while, with his bloody face, he cries out in pain.

Shocking images , for the Minister of the Interior. Christophe Castaner stressed on Monday that the police headquarters had immediately opened an administrative investigation, so that there is a penalty if necessary.

Another investigation was also launched on Sunday, this time at the request of the Paris prosecutor's office. It was entrusted to the IGPN, the police force.

A particularly rapid judicial response, while criticism of the police is increasing.

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