Riots broke out in France after Algeria won their African Cup of Nations clash with Ivory Coast

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They are thought to be around 5 million people of Algerian descent in France making-up just over seven percent of the population. Fans of the Algerian football team were celebrating there side’s penalty victory over Ivory Coast in the African Cup of Nations quarter-final. However, the celebrations descended into riots with one fan seen seen wielding a chainsaw in a video.

Dozens were arrested and at least thee motorcycle dealerships were looted. Several rioters were seeng chanting “Allahu Akbar” as a group smashed their way into a store. In the Mosson neighbourhood of the southern city of Montpellier, a mother was run over and killed and her one-year-old baby was seriously injured. The driver, a 21-year-old Algeria fan, had lost control at high speed an official explained.

An Algeria fan celebrates in Paris

A 17-year-old daughter of the victim also suffered an ankle injury. Tear gas was fired at protestors and young children as young as six were seen fleeing in Paris. Interior Minister for France Christophe Castaner described the scenes as “absolutely unacceptable”. He confirmed 74 people had been arrested across the country including 10 minors in Paris.

Algeria fans congregate at the Arc de Trimophe

A police source said: “Bikes were wheeled out of broken windows, while accessories including helmets and gloves were also taken. “There were also attacks on officers, meaning that tear gas had to be used to clear the roads.” A mother who was only named as Amira accused the police of being heavy handed: “One minute we were celebrating, the next we were being poisoned by police. “All of my children including a six year old were gassed, as were plenty of others who were out on the street.

Algeria will play Nigeria in Sunday's semi-final