He had warned before. Indeed, on Saturday, more than 400,000 protesters took over the streets of France. Within a few moments, chaos broke out. Protesters have been accused of attacking the police by wearing masks. The army also responded in turn. About 1,000 protesters were arrested.
France has been on fire for the past few weeks with protests over inflation, poor civil services, rising fuel prices and education reforms. Initially the movement started peacefully but later it turned violent. In the name of protest, looting, beatings and even arson were carried out. Protesters took to the streets in several cities, including Paris, on Saturday. However, the administration was already cautious. About 70 thousand policemen were deployed. Shops, museums and multiple metro stations in Paris were closed amid fears of unrest. A virtually undeclared lockdown situation prevailed in large parts of Paris.
Professional Cameraman captures insane up close footage from Paris
— Concerned Citizen (@BGatesIsaPyscho) October 24, 2026
#WATCH | A large number of people protest across France against the rising cost of living; visuals from Paris. (Source: Reuters)
— ANI (@ANI) October 24, 2026
According to the French government, 4.1 lakh people participated in the protest on this day. But according to sources, the number is around 8 lakhs. However, the center of the main protest was Paris. More than 1 lakh gathered there. Initially the movement started peacefully but towards the end there was chaos. The protesters clashed with the police. Police fired tear gas to disperse the protesters. Water cannons are also fired. At the same time, the police charged with sticks. In addition to Paris, there were sporadic disturbances in several cities including Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Lille, Nantes. The protesters broke the barricade and moved forward. Not only that, it is alleged that arson was also set in the direction.