Violence erupts across France

At least one thousand two hundred people were arrested on Saturday during protests against school hardship and cost of living. An estimated five hundred fifty thousand took to the streets.

Paris descends into chaos

In the capital, the afternoon march was largely peaceful. As evening came, groups lit fires in streets, torched vehicles at the Place de la République, ransacked shops and set at least one restaurant ablaze.

Police respond with force

Riot police used tear gas and water cannon on crowds. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said one hundred fifty police officers were injured. Officers were seen charging crowds and hitting people with batons.

Historic buildings destroyed

In Limoges, a large fire at the town hall caused the roof to partly collapse.In Lyon, the city's tourist office was burned.

“it breaks our hearts because it's a very iconic, well-known historic building”

Looting spreads nationwide

Looting broke out in several cities with widespread vandalism targeting city halls and businesses. Clothes and food shops were raided in Paris. An Apple store in Lille was broken into and emptied.

Student grievances fuel unrest

Hundreds of thousands of students have protested in recent weeks over staff shortages and dilapidated facilities in lycées, secondary schools for fifteen to eighteen year olds.

Political tensions intensify

The unrest comes as France heads into deep political uncertainty. President Emmanuel Macron leaves office next year. April's presidential election could pit Marine Le Pen against Jean-Luc Mélenchon, who accused police of unleashing on protesters.

Government vows prosecution

President Macron said those who broke, attacked prefectures, looted businesses and town halls will be prosecuted and punished. The government promised three thousand extra supply teachers but protests have continued and intensified.

“Those who have broken, attacked the prefectures as well as businesses, looted even our town halls, will be prosecuted and punished.”