195 arrested in Paris violence as Macron and police issue strong warnings to rioters
Paris (France), October 18: French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday condemned anarchists for vandalism, attacks on police stations and businesses, and looting of the town hall, warning that those responsible would face prosecution and punishment, as Paris police vowed not to back down against rioters, with at least 195 people detained so far.
The Police said groups of young people looted and set fires in Paris as night fell. Police responded by firing tear gas and resorting to baton charges in narrow streets.
According to a CNN report, Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said that approximately 550,000 protesters took to the streets across France, of which 110,000 were in Paris. Organizers estimate this number to be even higher. Demonstrations also took place in Rennes, Lyon, and Marseille this weekend. Images emerged of people climbing historical statues and buildings on fire. By evening, protesters in Lille and Marseille reportedly stormed government buildings.
Anger erupted in France on Saturday against President Emmanuel Macron. Nearly 550,000 people took to the streets. The number of protesters in the capital, Paris, alone is reported to be around 100,000. Police had to fire tear gas shells to disperse the protesters. When the situation became uncontrollable, lathi-charge was resorted to. Anti-government protests have spread to other areas outside the capital.
Protesters say “democracy is unsafe under President Emmanuel Macron. He is a billionaire and controls the media. We are fighting for change.” Police detained a protester during clashes in Marseille, southern France, before the protests began.
