Two arrested in France as burqa ban comes in

PARIS: Drider Kenza, a 32-year-old, went to Paris from his home in Provence to force a confrontation with police, and was one of those arrested.

There were minor scuffles officers arrested outside the Cathedral of Our Lady with another carrier niqab-staging an illegal demonstration against the new law.

Technically, women could now face a fine of 150 euros or 132 pounds, and the lessons of citizenship.

But Alexis Marsan, an official of public order, said they were only given warnings for having participated in an illegal gathering. Five men and a woman were also held to attend the event.

After his brief detention, Ms. Drider said she hoped she would eventually be pursued so that it can take its case to the European Court of Human Rights.

"This is illegal - it is only designed to oppress women in my situation," she said.

Police admitted they were enforcing the ban "with caution" because of fears of violence provoking.

They fear Muslims use the law to provoke fights with officers, while visitors from rich countries like Saudi Arabia will also cause problems.