In brief
The last day of demonstrations across France broke into widespread violence, with protesters attacking shopfronts and looting stores in Paris. At least 1,200 people were arrested by police as riot police moved in. The damage to retail outlets is estimated at €100,000, with shop owners beginning cleanup efforts that morning. BBC correspondent James Waterhouse reported from outside damaged buildings and the streets remain tense. The unrest reflects anger over education reforms and rising living costs.
The final day of mass demonstrations in France erupted into violent clashes, leaving Paris streets marked by shattered shopfronts and looted merchandise. Police deployed riot gear across the city as protesters, driven by anger over education reforms and rising living costs, stormed retail outlets.
Authorities arrested more than 1,200 people during the escalation, a figure the French government closely monitored. Shop owners reported property damage and stolen goods totaling roughly €100,000, with cleanup operations underway across the city this morning.
BBC correspondent James Waterhouse is on the scene, reporting from the front lines outside the damaged buildings. He captured footage of police vests, fireworks, and the stunned shoppers navigating a city still reeling from the violence.
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