Protesters and police clashed across France as thousands rallied against rising costs of living and school conditions.
Protesters recently clashed with police officers during large rallies across France. These demonstrations occurred in multiple cities throughout the country.
Meanwhile, scuffles broke out in Paris on Saturday. Police used tear gas against groups of masked individuals to maintain order.
Authorities sent many riot police to the Place de la Republique. Officers already detained dozens of people in the area.
Also, protesters in Marseille entered the town hall. Local reports indicate that people also looted several shops in the city.
Next, fire broke out at the tourism office in Lyon. Media outlets linked this damage to the ongoing protest activity.
The Interior Ministry recorded 140 separate events by midday. Officials counted over 32,000 participants across the nation.
As a result, police arrested 166 people nationwide. These rallies focus on the rising costs of fuel and food.
Still, these events follow weeks of student protests. High schoolers previously marched to demand better conditions in their schools.
However, some students suffered serious injuries during earlier clashes. One teenager reportedly lost a hand during a previous incident.
Furthermore, many citizens joined peaceful protests on Saturday. Unions and teachers marched alongside ordinary people in the streets.
Additionally, members of the "yellow vest" movement joined the rallies. They previously protested the high cost of living in 2018.
Finally, President Macron asked for calm before the protests began. He acknowledged the right to protest but demanded respect for property.