(Photo courtesy of Anadolu)
PARIS, FRANCE – French authorities have extended nighttime curfews to several cities and regions outside Paris following a weekend of violent demonstrations, looting, and vandalism linked to protests over rising living costs and fuel prices.
According to French broadcaster BFMTV, restrictions are being introduced in Nice, Lyon, and parts of the Gironde department as authorities move to prevent further unrest.
In Paris, a curfew will be enforced from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. around Place de la République and streets near Les Halles. The restriction applies to all residents, regardless of age.
Authorities have also prohibited demonstrations in selected Paris neighborhoods from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.
In Lyon, a nighttime curfew will take effect from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. in parts of Presqu’île, the city’s central district.
Nice Mayor Eric Ciotti announced a separate curfew for minors from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. in downtown streets, citing the need to protect residents following the weekend violence.
Meanwhile, unaccompanied minors in designated areas of Gironde will be prohibited from going out between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. until October 26.
Local authorities said the measure targets communities affected by looting and property damage on October 17.
Similar restrictions have been introduced in northern France, including Lille, Douai, Wattignies, and Denain, where curfews from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. will be enforced for two nights.
Denain has also imposed a separate curfew from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. until October 25.
The measures follow nationwide demonstrations on Saturday that drew approximately 550,000 participants across 110 protests, including 110,000 demonstrators in Paris.
Interior Minister Laurent Nunez reported around 400 arrests nationwide following incidents of violence and disorder.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said Monday that he had instructed local prefects to implement targeted curfews in areas affected by the unrest.
Lecornu also announced a major judicial operation to prosecute individuals involved in violence and looting, alongside partial unemployment support for businesses affected by the disturbances.
Authorities have likewise introduced restrictions on public gatherings in Marseille as security measures continue across the country.
