ALWAGHT- French officials have prolonged nighttime movement restrictions in Paris and several other major urban centers, while vowing to mobilize a large police force to maintain security during Saturday’s planned protests.
French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has extended overnight curfews in parts of the country through Tuesday night where necessary and announced a “massive” security operation involving police and military personnel ahead of planned Saturday protests. Authorities have also restricted the carrying of containers filled with petrol or gas following attacks on government buildings and shops.
The measures follow some of France’s worst riots in recent years, sparked by widespread anger over the cost of living. Clashes between riot police and demonstrators in Paris involved tear gas and stun grenades, while dozens were reportedly detained and several people suffered serious injuries, including the loss of a hand and an eye.
Meanwhile, the country’s main student union, UNEF, has called for further demonstrations over the underfunded education system, while groups associated with the Yellow Vest movement have urged protests against rising fuel prices. The unrest has prompted several countries to issue travel advisories for France, amid growing concerns that public discontent over living costs and declining living standards could spread across Europe.
