KUALA LUMPUR: The situation in Paris, France, has returned to normal after national security forces contained massive riots that paralysed the city over the weekend.
Malaysian tourist guide Ozel Zaenal, 40, who was in Paris during the unrest, said clean-up operations were currently underway following the swift intervention by security forces.
"Prompt action by Paris security forces successfully brought the situation under control. Conditions returned to normal, especially in the city centre.
"While a few shops and boutiques remain closed, the overall situation is under control and clean-up efforts are ongoing," he said when contacted today.
After experiencing tense moments during the riots, Ozel said the atmosphere was far calmer, and he felt safe.
"The environment is not chaotic like before. There is no unrest, and no sirens from police cars, fire engines, or ambulances can be heard," he said.
Ozel, who has worked as a tour guide across Europe for the past decade, advised Malaysians planning visits to Paris in the near future to stay outside the city centre.
"Avoid using the underground train system, even though conditions here have improved based on the current situation.
"However, we must take early precautions to avoid any unwanted incidents," he said.
Ozel previously shared his ordeal on social media after being trapped during the riots that brought Paris to a standstill.
A wave of large-scale riots and protests has swept several European nations, culminating in violent clashes in major cities including Paris and Milan, Italy.
The crisis was reportedly triggered by widespread anger over student welfare issues, deteriorating public services, and the rising cost of living, marking some of the worst violence the country has seen in decades.
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