France rocked by violent protests

Violent clashes, vandalism and looting during protests over the rising cost of living and education reforms in France have led to the arrest of nearly 2,400 people in a single day. A total of 997 police officers and security personnel have been injured in clashes with protesters over the past month, including seven who are in serious condition.

France’s Interior Ministry released the figures on Sunday (October 18). According to police data, 2,397 people have been taken into custody on allegations of violence, attacks on law enforcement personnel, destruction of public property and threats to public safety.

Around 1,500 shops across the country have also been damaged amid the unrest, with most reportedly subjected to looting, according to a representative of the retail and trade sector.

Alexandre Bompard, president of the French Retail and Trade Federation, told LCI television on Sunday that the financial losses suffered by affected businesses could amount to several hundred million euros.

However, he said it was too early to provide an accurate estimate of the damage.

French President Emmanuel Macron has strongly condemned the violence linked to the protests, saying in a televised address to the nation on Sunday that there was no justification for the ongoing unrest.

Macron said those responsible for destruction, vandalism and looting under the banner of the protest movement must be held accountable. He also warned that the government would take a firm stance against rioters.

The president instructed relevant officials to coordinate with mayors to ensure the security of cities, government buildings and business establishments. He said the destruction on city streets was unacceptable.

Macron also pledged support for businesses affected by the violence.

The protests, initially sparked by demands over the rising cost of living and education reforms, triggered widespread unrest across France on Saturday (October 17). What began as peaceful demonstrations escalated into clashes, vandalism and looting in several locations.