Large-scale protests and tightened security measures in France

Due to a renewed wave of protests in France, the authorities have taken unprecedented security measures. According to Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez, 70,000 police officers and gendarmes have been mobilized across the country to maintain order, with helicopters, armored vehicles, drones, and water cannons at their disposal. In Paris, several major museums and metro stations were closed for security reasons, and business owners boarded up their storefronts with wooden panels. Imedi+6

Course of the protests and clashes

In Paris, the police changed the route of the march organized by trade unions at the last minute, which sparked protests from the organizers. According to Rustavi2, marches were banned and a curfew was imposed in more than 100 French cities. Nevertheless, demonstrations were held in Paris, Marseille, Lyon, and Nantes. According to 1tv, law enforcement officers used tear gas to disperse protesters in Lyon, Marseille, and Nice. 1TV+7

Arrests and legal response

The number of people arrested amid the protests is growing. According to 1tv, 65 people were arrested in Paris, while the total number of detainees across the country reached 2,700. French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin states that the justice system will take extremely strict measures against looters and rioters. In addition, the prosecutor's office is asking judges to restrict the defendants' access to social networks and to strip them of their right to vote. Rustavi 2+4