A collection for a French policeman who provoked nationwide riots by shooting a teenager dead topped €1 million on Monday, dwarfing donations to the victim’s family.

More than 40,000 people have pledged money to the online appeal set up by a far-Right media commentator on the Gofundme.com website.

It easily outstripped the €200,000 gathered for the family of the dead 17-year-old, Nahel, who was of north African origin.

Nahel’s grandmother, Nadia, said she was “heartbroken” by the support shown for the policeman.

“He took the life of my grandson. This man must pay, the same as everyone,” she told the BFM channel on Sunday. “I have confidence in the justice system. I believe in justice.”

It comes amid signs French citizens are fighting back against rioters as the protests that have rocked the country appear to be subsiding after days of violent unrest.