France boosts police presence, hoping to prevent repeat of riots
France is deploying 70,000 police officers to manage nationwide protests following recent riots and looting. Authorities are concerned about potential violence from radical groups, while tensions remain high due to a recent racist attack.
Why it matters
The situation reflects growing social unrest in France driven by economic grievances and political polarization.
France will deploy 70,000 police at nationwide protests on Saturday, Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said on Friday, looking to prevent a repeat of the violence and looting that shocked the country last weekend.
Elite security teams and heavily armed mobile squads will be mobilised alongside regular units in a show of force aimed at dispelling fears the government has lost control of the streets.
"We will be uncompromising with rioters, looters and all those who commit acts of violence," Nunez told reporters, adding that "ultra-left" groups had been urging activists online to target public buildings and unleash more lawlessness.
"We are not talking about a nice, friendly demonstration," Nunez said. "We are ready for tomorrow. We will be extremely vigilant, extremely firm, and we will let absolutely nothing pass."
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