Several convoys have already left Nice, Bayonne and Perpignan on Wednesday. They plan to reach Paris on Friday evening and some then call to join Brussels for a “European convergence” scheduled for Monday February 14.
The Belgian authorities have announced that the federal police will be responsible for controlling trucks and cars coming from abroad wishing to reach Brussels at the Belgian border. In addition, “orders prohibiting demonstrations with motorized vehicles” will be taken at the level of the region and the city of Brussels, according to a press release from the president of the regional executive, Rudi Vervoort. The measure is also aimed at potential Belgian demonstrators or already on Belgian soil.
Firmness guidelines
In France, the prefect of police of Paris Didier Lallement, who gave “firm instructions” to the police, recalls that obstructing traffic is punishable by a two-year prison sentence, a fine of 4,500 euros, immobilization and impoundment of the vehicle, halving of the maximum number of driving license points and suspension for a maximum of three years.
“The organizer of a prohibited demonstration can be punished by six months’ imprisonment and a fine of 7,500 euros and the participants will be fined with a fourth class fine”, or 135 euros, adds the prefecture.