Tensions Rise in Crépol: Gatherings Banned in Memory of Thomas
As the first anniversary of the death of Thomas approaches, tensions are escalating in the small village of Crépol, prompting the Drôme prefecture to ban gatherings planned in his memory. The prefecture's decision, announced on Monday, aims to prevent potential disturbances to public order during the weekend of November 30. The far-right group 'Justice for Ours' had initially called for a meeting on November 19, coinciding with the anniversary of Thomas's murder, but postponed it following protests from the victim's family.
The group has been actively distributing leaflets in Romans-sur-Isère and surrounding areas, urging people to gather in memory of Thomas and Nicolas Dumas, another young man killed recently, whom they label as 'victims of immigration.' This narrative has drawn significant political attention, with right-wing factions using the incidents to highlight perceived growing insecurity in rural areas, attributing it to issues stemming from sensitive suburbs.
Political Exploitation and Counter-Demonstrations
The prefecture's press release noted concerns over the political exploitation of these tragedies, leading left-wing associations to plan a counter-demonstration. They have expressed fears of major unrest and ideological clashes in the towns of Romans-sur-Isère, Bourg-de-Péage, Crépol, and Valence. In response to these tensions, the prefect has prohibited all gatherings related to the deaths or associated with themes of racism, hatred, or immigration from 8 a.m. Saturday to 8 p.m. Sunday.
The tragic death of Thomas, a 16-year-old high school student who was fatally stabbed during a village dance, has ignited a fierce political debate. Right-wing and far-right groups have capitalized on the incident to push their agenda, claiming it reflects a broader issue of insecurity linked to immigration. This has led to heightened emotions and a volatile atmosphere in the region, particularly following a previous demonstration by far-right activists that resembled a punitive expedition in the Monnaie district, where some suspects in the case reside.
