World · BBC News
France Sees Violent Protests, Over 1,200 Arrested
On Saturday, demonstrations across France erupted into violence, with riot police deploying tear gas and water cannons as crowds clashed in Paris and other cities. At least 1,200 people were detained, while an estimated 550,000 joined the marches nationwide. Fires broke out in several towns, including a blaze that partially collapsed the town hall roof in Limoges and a torching of the tourist office in Lyon. Looting and vandalism targeted city halls, businesses, and even an Apple store in Lille, with a restaurant in Paris gutted by fire. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu reported 150 police officers injured and warned that the unrest was a “warm‑up” for the upcoming presidential election. The Interior Ministry described the incidents as “targeted acts of violence” by hooded individuals in places such as Marseille, Rennes, Toulouse and Angers. The protests stem from student grievances over school staff shortages and poor facilities, joined by the long‑running gilets jaunes movement. The government has pledged extra teachers, but the demonstrations have intensified ahead of the 2024 election.
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