Looting, blazes and clashes in France amid nationwide protests

Violent clashes between police and protesters broke out across French cities on Saturday during nationwide demonstrations against soaring inflation, rising living costs, and declining public services. The interior ministry reported that 550,000 people attended the marches, while the CGT union stated that 800,000 participated. The unrest included massive looting, the setting of multiple blazes, and attacks on shops and public buildings.

In Limoges, part of a town hall roof collapsed following fires. Paris Mayor Emmanuel Gregoire stated that whole streets in the capital were devastated by masked young men who torched parked cars and ransacked businesses.

The violence resulted in significant injuries and arrests. In the southern city of Saint-Etienne, a 17-year-old boy had his right hand blown off by a crowd-control grenade, according to the New Straits Times and Free Malaysia Today. While Sebastien Lecornu stated that 150 police officers were hurt and 1,200 people were arrested, the Times of India reported that interior minister Laurent Nuñez stated 60 law enforcement officers were injured, including two taken to the hospital unconscious.

To disperse protesters who threw projectiles and fireworks, police deployed tear gas and water cannons.

President Emmanuel Macron vowed strict action against those involved in arson, looting, and attacks on public buildings, stating that those responsible would face prosecution. The unrest follows weeks of student protests and occurs amid political uncertainty as the country prepares for elections in six months to replace Macron.

Brief written by urgent.news from Toronto Sun, Ajel English, New Straits Times, Times of India, Free Malaysia Today — 5 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.