STORY
French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged that those responsible for riots, looting and attacks on public buildings will be held accountable following nationwide unrest on 17 October. In a televised address on Sunday, he condemned the violence and said those who had looted would have to pay for the damage. Authorities reported at least 2,400 arrests following demonstrations over living costs and conditions in schools.
Violence affected cities including Paris, Marseille and Lyon, with shops looted and public buildings attacked. In Limoges, fire largely destroyed the historic town hall, causing its clock tower to collapse. Further confrontations occurred on Sunday as police intervened against groups attempting to damage businesses.
Macron distinguished peaceful demonstrators with legitimate grievances from those responsible for destruction. He blamed radical groups and criminals for the violence and said local prefects would be able to prohibit demonstrations where necessary to protect businesses and public buildings. His response combined an appeal for calm with a commitment to pursue those responsible.