Extensive Use of Tear Gas at Paris Protests
French police employed extensive tear gas during demonstrations in Paris, according to reports from FRANCE 24’s Antonia Kerrigan, who noted at least two fires during the protests.
Bordeaux Residence Ransacked by Protesters
Officials reported that protesters “ransacked” the prefect’s residence in Bordeaux amid ongoing unrest.
PM Blames Violence on Ultra-Left Groups
In a statement on social media, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu blamed the violence at protests on ultra-left groups. He claimed these groups orchestrated disturbances in several cities, adding, “No one will impose their political agenda through violence” as the presidential election draws near.
Shops Looted in Marseille
Dozens of shops, ranging from food outlets to luxury stores, were looted in Marseille during the protests, AFP reported. Local firefighters responded to a fire at a sports shoe shop.
Paris Mayor Condemns Vandalism
Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire condemned the vandalism occurring during the protests, stating that the “vast majority” of participants were demonstrating peacefully.
Nationwide Protests Draw 500,000 Participants
France’s largest trade union, CGT, reported that over 500,000 people joined the nationwide protests, highlighting widespread discontent over the cost of living.
Protester Injured in Saint-Étienne
A protester in Saint-Étienne had their hand blown off by a police crowd-control grenade, according to police sources.
Protesters Voice Grievances in Paris
Protesters expressed frustration over climate and equality issues. Agnes, a 50-year-old actor, accused the government of inaction, while student Kamil Alahyan highlighted the growing wealth gap and political dishonesty.
Violence Erupts at Lille Town Hall
Protesters forced their way into Lille’s town hall, vandalising it before riot police intervened. This incident occurred shortly after similar unrest in Marseille.
Arrests Nearing 300
By mid-afternoon, the French Interior Ministry reported at least 272 arrests nationwide.
Marine Le Pen Criticises Far-Left
Far-right politician Marine Le Pen accused the far-left of legitimising violence and stifling legitimate social demands, blaming them for the unrest.
Scuffles and Fires in Major Cities
Fires erupted on Paris’ Place de la République as police used tear gas to disperse violent protesters. Similar violence was reported in Lyon and Marseille, where city halls and shops were damaged.
Over 140 Protests Across France
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez stated that 140 protests were recorded outside Paris by midday, involving over 30,000 people and leading to at least 166 arrests.
Mélenchon Critiques Media Focus on Violence
Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the far-left France Unbowed party, criticised media coverage for highlighting violence over the peaceful protests of “tens of thousands.”
Paris Marches
Two separate marches took place in Paris: one led by students and another by Yellow Vests and labour unions. Both began at Place de la République but were barred from passing through Bastille or Opéra, as originally planned.
