Violent clashes, looting and buildings ablaze in France as over 1,000 arrested after protests

Violent clashes, looting and buildings ablaze in France as over 1,000 arrested after protests

Violence broke out across France on Saturday during the latest day of demonstrations against hardship in schools and the cost of living.

At least 1,200 people were arrested during what the French government described as an “escalation in violence” alongside an estimated 550,000 taking to the streets.

In Paris, there were significant clashes into the evening with riot police, who used tear gas and water cannon on crowds.

Buildings were set alight in the capital and other areas, including in Limoges where a large fire in the town hall caused the roof to partly collapse.

Looting broke out in several cities, with widespread vandalism targeting city halls and businesses also reported.

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said 150 police officers were injured in the unrest.

In Paris, the main march appeared to be largely peaceful during the afternoon. A group of young people told the BBC they were “pacifists” who are “just trying to make things change, but nothing is moving”.

However, as the day wore on some groups lit fires in the street and torched vehicles, including in iconic locations in the city centre like the Place de la République.

Shops were ransacked, at least one restaurant was gutted by fire, and the BBC saw fighting breaking out among some of the groups.

Riot police were seen charging at one crowd in central Paris and hitting several people with batons.