Around 2,000 defy demonstration ban in Lyon as police use tear gas

Around 2,000 protesters defied a ban on demonstrations in the southeastern French city of Lyon on Saturday, and police used tear gas after fireworks were fired toward security forces, Anadolu Agency reported, citing local media.

Demonstrators gathered mainly in the city’s 7th arrondissement, according to local authorities. The prefecture told French newspaper “Le Progrès” that protesters were “very dispersed” across the area.

Fireworks mortars were reportedly fired toward police, prompting officers to respond with tear gas.

Authorities had prohibited demonstrations in parts of Lyon amid nationwide protests over rising living costs and conditions in the education sector.

Security measures had been reinforced following violence during demonstrations the previous weekend.