A retired building worker has appeared in court on charges of a breach of the peace at the time of the state visit of Chinese leader Xi Jinping earlier this year.
The court was told that the man had moved a barrier that was in place on Albert-I Boulevard, the route of the President’s visit, at a time when Monaco was in virtual lockdown and the public was told not to watch events from balconies or windows.
The accused told police that he needed to get to CHPG urgently. He accused police officers on the scene of striking him and he fell to the ground.
The official version is somewhat different, and alcohol was blamed for his “arrogant” behaviour. A fine of 800 euros was called for. However, citing the approaching end of year holidays, the court imposed a fine of 600 euros and 300 euros in damages.
PHOTO: Xi Jinping
