French gun sales rise after riots as shopkeepers seek protection

Sales of non-lethal weapons have increased since riots and violence on October 17, according to French gunsmiths. Yves Gollety, president of the gunsmiths' union, said new customers "had the scare of their lives." Gollety said buyers include shopkeepers, restaurateurs, and local residents who faced looters or were pillaged during the unrest. They are purchasing defense sprays, incapacitating product launchers like GPX devices, and mini-LBDs. The surge began early this week as a direct consequence of the October 17 events. Gollety made the remarks on the show "Pascal Praud et vous," noting the clientele sought protection after experiencing violence firsthand.