Around 1,800 people were arrested after nationwide protests against fuel prices and the cost of living escalated into riots, looting and arson in Paris, Marseille and other cities.
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01Summary
- 01Some 550,000 demonstrators took to the streets across France on Saturday, largely peacefully, against rising fuel prices and deteriorating public services.
- 02About 1,800 people were arrested; 150 police officers were injured in the unrest.
- 03Rioters set fire to cars and buildings, including the tourist office in Lyon, Limoges town hall and a Lille McDonald's.
- 04Looters targeted shops in Paris, including Ralph Lauren, Gucci, Versace and an Apple store in Lille.
- 05A young man lost his hand to an explosive in Saint-Étienne, and the Limoges town hall, built 143 years ago, was largely destroyed by fire.
02Why it matters
The protests and looting signal deep public anger over the cost of living and public services in France, with widespread damage to businesses and historic buildings affecting local communities.
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