France Deploys 70,000 Police Personnel as Fresh Protests Over Rising Living Costs Turn Tense

French police fired tear gas to disperse demonstrators in the southeastern city of Lyon on Saturday as the government deployed up to 70,000 officers nationwide amid fresh protests over the rising cost of living and school conditions.

The extensive security operation was aimed at preventing a repeat of the looting and street violence reported during demonstrations the previous weekend. According to Agence France-Presse (AFP), police confronted around 150 protesters near Lyon’s city centre, where demonstrations had been prohibited, after some briefly attempted to block a road.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced that the nationwide deployment would be supported by helicopters, armoured vehicles and water cannons. The Associated Press reported that Nuñez had warned of social media messages calling for violence and looting, prompting authorities to strengthen security arrangements.

Businesses Brace for Potential Unrest

As demonstrations were planned across France, authorities and business owners took precautions against possible violence. In Paris, several retailers covered their storefronts with wooden boards, while some businesses removed merchandise from display shelves to minimise potential losses.

Near the Bastille neighbourhood, a clothing shop cleared its shelves ahead of the protests, while a nearby restaurant boarded up its windows but displayed signs informing customers that it remained open. Other shops across the capital also secured their premises in anticipation of possible disturbances.

The preparations reflected growing concerns following the previous weekend’s unrest. With demonstrators raising concerns about living expenses and conditions in schools, security forces were placed on heightened alert to prevent further violence and protect businesses and public property during the latest round of protests.