320,000 march in France as protests turn violent; germany absent from the brief
Large crowds across France
Demonstrations took place nationwide for a third consecutive weekend, with participants raising concerns about living costs and school conditions. The French Interior Ministry put attendance at 320,000, including 70,000 in Paris.
The ministry said the marches were conducted smoothly within the declared demonstrations. It also reported that groups in Bordeaux, Toulouse and Marseille tried to reach city centres to commit vandalism and looting.
Clashes reported in cities
Fires were seen in Marseille as firefighters responded, and confrontations with police were reported in Rennes and Toulouse. After a mostly peaceful start, officers used tear gas in Paris and Lyon late in the afternoon, according to French media and live footage.
Tensions rose as the Paris march reached its endpoint on the city’s southern outskirts. BFMTV footage showed fireworks and incendiary devices thrown toward officers in riot gear, with several officers caught in flames.
Security measures and arrests
Police in Paris conducted more than 1,200 checks at railway stations and surrounding areas, seeking to prevent people from carrying fireworks, knives and other prohibited items to demonstrations. The city’s police prefecture said aircraft and camera-equipped drones were used to monitor security and transmit live images.
Police reported more than 290 arrests across France on Saturday. Around 70,000 police officers and other security personnel were deployed nationwide, after Interior Minister Laurent Nunez warned of a very high risk tied to calls for looting and rioting.
Restrictions ahead of marches
Authorities were concerned that Halloween celebrations could help people hide their identities while committing offenses. Officials also feared attacks on public buildings and looting, and ordered routes in Paris and other cities away from central areas.
Businesses boarded up windows and took other precautions. Several cities imposed curfews or other restrictions, including rules affecting particular areas and minors.
Key points
- The Interior Ministry counted 320,000 demonstrators nationwide, including 70,000 in Paris.
- Clashes were reported in several cities, and police used tear gas in Paris and Lyon.
- More than 290 arrests were reported across France.
- Authorities deployed about 70,000 security personnel and changed routes or imposed restrictions in some cities.