France’s interior minister admits police lost control during violent protests

Paris — President Emmanuel Macron, grappling with the fallout of violent protests in France, admitted on Monday to shortcomings in anticipating and gathering intelligence, but maintained his interior minister's position, according to the presidential palace. Opposition politicians had demanded Nunez's dismissal in the wake of demonstrations over the cost of living that turned into some of the most severe urban unrest in years.

Over 2,400 individuals were detained on Saturday, with nearly 1,000 police and gendarmes sustaining injuries, as clashes between law enforcement and demonstrators, widespread looting, and fires engulfed the nation, reported the interior ministry. Nunez tendered his resignation to Macron on Sunday, the Elysee palace confirmed. Despite the minister's resignation, the president retained him, stating that continued leadership of law enforcement was crucial at the moment.

Macron requested Nunez to undertake measures to ensure transparency regarding the planning and intelligence failures that contributed to the violence, the statement elaborated. The president additionally tasked Nunez with devising new operational methods for ensuring security.