More Than 1,800 Arrests Reported Across France After Riots, Looting and Arson During Cost-of-Living Protests

Arrests and clashes across France

The protests took place Saturday, with clashes, fires and looting reported in several cities. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu said 150 police officers were injured and blamed what he called a highly organized, violent far-left group.

Paris police recorded 855 arrests, which they described as a record. Prosecutors said 517 people were still in custody, including 171 minors, but stressed that the figures were provisional as arrests continued into early Sunday.

Damage and political reactions

In Limoges, rioters set fire to the historic town hall, leaving much of the building gutted. Mayor Guillaume Guerin condemned the destruction, telling LCI, “The country is in chaos.” Authorities also reported attacks on public buildings and shops in Marseille, Lyon, Avignon and Grenoble. Police used tear gas, batons and water cannon in several cities; Le Figaro reported that a 17-year-old lost a hand to a police-fired grenade in Saint-Etienne.

Protest demands and turnout

President Emmanuel Macron said those responsible would be prosecuted and punished. Marine Le Pen accused Jean-Luc Melenchon’s party of having “legitimized the violence,” while Melenchon urged protesters to avoid looting, which he called “contrary to our methods.” Demonstrators cited fuel prices, low wages and difficulties facing farmers and firefighters. Students also joined, seeking better learning conditions; the interior ministry estimated nationwide turnout at 550,000, including 110,000 in Paris, while the CGT union put the national figure at 800,000.

Budget pressures and wider concerns

France’s high debt and budget deficit constrain the government’s ability to meet demands for more spending. The unrest has heightened tensions ahead of the 2027 presidential election.