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Sat, 17 Oct 2026

Sat, 17 Oct 2026 How day of protests unfolded as disorder breaks out across France

Demonstrations across the country turned violent, with cars and buildings set alight and shops ransacked.

* Approximately 550,000 people participated in protests across France.
* Protests were sparked by demands for increased investment in education and action on rising living costs.
* The demonstrations turned violent with cars and buildings set alight, shops ransacked, and at least 1,200 arrests made.
* Riot police deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds.
* French President Emmanuel Macron denounced the violence, stating that vandals and looters will be prosecuted and punished.