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A journalist who spent 6 months working undercover as a French police officer says he witnessed a culture of racism and violence in which officers acted with impunity.

Valentin Gendrot says while the problem is with a small minority, other officers were aware of their actions, but didn't challenge them.

In a statement, the police force said that the accused members of the police had not yet been identified, and an inquiry by the public prosecutor would take place. The inquiry will also look into why the prosecutor was not immediately informed after the alleged actions took place.

The French Police Prefect expressed his support for the police who he said carried out their daily duties with professionalism in what were often difficult circumstances.

Valentin described how he'd himself witnessed police beating up a young immigrant.

(Photo: stock photo of French police officer Credit: Getty Images)