Violence in protests in France: More than 1,200 detained
Protests across France over rising living costs turned violent, resulting in more than 1,200 arrests and partial destruction of the historic town hall in Limoges.
Mass protests across France against financial hardship and the cost of living escalated into violent clashes. During the confrontations, police used tear gas and water cannons, leading to more than 1,200 arrests nationwide, 150 police officers injured, and severe fire damage to the 1876 historic town hall in the city of Limoges.
In demonstrations held against school difficulties and the cost of living in France, fierce clashes broke out between protesters and riot police. While the Ministry of the Interior estimated the turnout at 550,000 people, the CGT union claimed the figure reached 800,000. Security forces used water cannons and tear gas to disperse the crowd.
Businesses, administrative buildings, and official institutions were targeted in many cities across the country; incidents of looting, vandalism, and arson were reported. In Limoges, a fire set by demonstrators caused massive destruction to the historic town hall built in 1876, which had survived the world wars, leading to the collapse of a portion of its roof. A tourist office was set on fire in Lyon, while a police compound in Bordeaux and town halls in Marseille and Lille were targeted. In the city of Saint-Étienne, a young person suffered severe hand injuries due to an explosive device.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced that at least 1,200 people were detained and 150 police officers were injured in the incidents. President Emmanuel Macron stated that those involved in acts of vandalism, assaults, and looting would be tried and punished. Ahead of the upcoming presidential elections, political figures blamed one another for the ongoing unrest.