The French Prime Minister confirmed plans to deploy a large police force to handle possible new protests expected this weekend after major riots occurred last Saturday.
On Tuesday, 20 Oct 2026 GMT+7, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu pledged to deploy a large police presence to manage new protests following calls by organizers for people to gather again this weekend.
Lecornu faced severe criticism for his poor handling of last week's protests, which led rioters to set fire to key buildings across cities, including a 143-year-old town hall in Limoges, while over 2,000 shops were looted extensively.
The French Prime Minister admitted security flaws last week and accused ultra-left extremist groups of planning riots against the government, resulting in clashes amid peaceful protests over the cost of living.
On Monday, French authorities imposed partial curfews in Paris and several other cities, and Lecornu said curfews would also be enforced on Tuesday if necessary.
A curfew was recently announced in Paris from 11:00 p.m. Tuesday to early Wednesday, covering areas including Place de la République, a recent protest hotspot, and the Les Halles shopping district, with helicopters patrolling to maintain order.
Additionally, public gatherings are banned in key locations such as the Champs-Élysées and train stations, and carrying flammable liquids or gas cans in public is prohibited.
The weekend protests caused significant property damage and many injuries; one male protester lost a hand from a police stun grenade, a 17-year-old girl lost an eye, and over 1,000 officers were injured during clashes.
So far, police have arrested over 2,400 rioters, with 800 brought to court and nearly 150 imprisoned. The government is preparing zero-interest loans to assist damaged shops and businesses.
French parliament members have also approved investigations into the riots and the effectiveness of intelligence and police operations.
The violence has prompted countries such as the US, China, and Germany to issue travel warnings for their citizens planning to visit France.
Source:cna