The French government on Sunday banned the sale and use of fireworks, popular among protesters during recent violence in the country’s cities, by individuals during the National Day demonstrations on July 14, AFP and Agerpres reported.

These fireworks, which can usually be bought anywhere, have been “transferred” for several years from use in France, where they are mainly used to hit law enforcement or attack buildings.

They were widely used during the six nights of riots that rocked the country after the death of 17-year-old Nachel, who was killed by a police officer during a traffic stop in Nanterre, near Paris.

Fearing more clashes during the national holiday, a government decision published in the Official Gazette on Sunday bans the sale of fireworks on July 14 and 15, when firecrackers and fireworks are usually set off across the country.

“In order to prevent the risk of serious violations of public order during the festive events from July 14 to July 15, inclusive, the sale, storage, transportation and use of pyrotechnic products and fireworks is prohibited throughout the country,” the text reads. .

This ban does not apply to authorized professionals or town halls that organize fireworks on a public holiday, the document says.

French Prime Minister Elizabeth Bourne announced that in addition to the ban on pyrotechnics, “massive” security measures would be in place.

Over the past few days, police have seized several consignments of questionable fireworks, the most important of which was a 2.7-tonne one found near Rennes (north-west).