France Braces for More Protests After Paris Shooting, Macron Bans "Illegitimate" Gatherings

French anti-terror police are investigating a fatal drive-by shooting that occurred today in Trappes, a town west of Paris. The incident, which left one person dead and at least four injured, has prompted France's National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor's office to open a criminal investigation into "murder in connection with a terrorist enterprise". A suspect has been apprehended in connection with the attack, which saw shots fired from a vehicle at multiple locations.

This shooting comes as France is already on high alert and bracing for further unrest, following weeks of escalating protests that resulted in significant street violence and looting last weekend. In response to the ongoing civil unrest, President Emmanuel Macron announced on Thursday that "illegitimate" demonstrations would be banned in the coming days. While protests organized by recognized groups like trade unions may proceed with potential route changes, gatherings by "individuals or groups with no legitimate authority" are prohibited. Macron attributed much of the recent violence to "seditious ultra-left groups" and vandals, as authorities prepare for nationwide demonstrations expected this weekend.