France mobilises security forces ahead of election

France has fully mobilised its security forces, including elite units, to ensure citizens' protection during the forthcoming presidential election.

Today's announcement from Prime Minister Bernard Cazeneuve follows Thursday night's shooting in central Paris.

One policeman was shot dead and two others seriously injured after a gunman opened fire at the Champs Elysees.

The suspected attacker was killed by French security forces as he tried to flee.

Speaking after an emergency meeting of top security officials, Cazeneuve said all elite units were on top alert for the election to back up the 50,000 police already earmarked for special election duty.

"The government is fully mobilised. Nothing must be allowed to impede the fundamental democratic process of our country. It falls to us not to give in to fear and intimidation and manipulation which would play into the hands of the enemy," he said in a statement.

Islamic State has said one of its “fighters” carried out the attack.

The first round in France's two-stage election will be held on Sunday with a second final round on 7 May.