Protests Turn Violent as France Extends Curfews
Istanbul (ANTARA) – The French government has extended curfews from Paris to Nice, Lyon and several areas of Gironde after weekend protests were marred by violence and looting, BFMTV reported on Monday.
In Paris, a curfew runs from 10pm to 6am around Place de la République and the streets surrounding the Les Halles district.
The government stressed that the curfew applies to all residents, not only minors. Demonstrations have also been banned in several parts of Paris from 8pm to 6am local time.
In Lyon, a curfew is in force from 9pm to 6am in parts of the Presqu’île, in the city centre.
Nice Mayor Eric Ciotti announced a curfew for minors on several central streets, from 9pm to 6am.
Ciotti said the measure was intended to protect residents, citing “gangs of rioters sweeping through the city’s streets this weekend”.
In Gironde, in south-western France, a curfew applies to minors who are not accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, from 10pm to 7am until 26 October.
Local authorities said the restrictions cover areas most affected by looting and vandalism on 17 October.
The restrictions come as authorities in various parts of France impose curfews and other security measures following violence and looting at nationwide demonstrations over the weekend.
The protests were held against rising living costs and fuel prices.
The French government said on Monday that curfews would also be imposed for two nights in four northern areas – Lille, Douai, Wattignies and Denain – with the approval of their respective mayors.
The restrictions in those four areas run from 8pm to 6am. Denain has also imposed a separate curfew from 9pm to 6am until 25 October.
Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said around 550,000 people took part in 110 demonstrations across France on Saturday, including 110,000 in Paris. Around 400 people were arrested nationwide.
Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu said he had asked prefects to impose curfews in a limited way and in specific areas following the unrest.
Lecornu also announced a major legal operation to pursue those responsible for violence and looting, as well as measures to reduce working hours to help affected companies.
The government has also announced restrictions on gatherings in Marseille.