Nearly 1,000 arrested in France during protests over living costs

Nearly 1,000 people were arrested across France during Saturday’s demonstrations over rising living costs and poor education standards, with the total expected to increase, Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said, according to Anadolu Agency.

Nunez said the demonstrations had largely unfolded as anticipated. However, groups considered at risk of causing trouble broke away from marches and attempted to damage property and attack security forces.

“Law enforcement intervened systematically in response to these acts, which were numerous, involving projectile throwing and mortar fire,” he said.

The number of arrests was significantly higher than the 385 recorded at the same point during demonstrations last weekend, the minister said.

Nunez said shops in city centres had been protected, although some businesses were looted in certain cities. He described the situation in this regard as better than last week.

Police also seized a large number of items that could be used as weapons, Nunez said, praising the effectiveness of the security operation.