France: Cities impose night curfews after looting

After protests over the weekend, several French cities are now imposing curfews on certain population groups and areas.

In Paris, from Monday evening from 11 p.m. to Tuesday morning at 6 p.m., a ban on entering the Republic Square and the district “Les Halles”, the police prefecture said. In addition, there are bans on gathering and demonstrations in certain districts of the metropolis from 8 pm.

These measures are necessary to restore “the security of all” and public peace, “which has been seriously affected by a minority of criminals.” The police will monitor compliance with the rules.

In the northern French cities of Lille, Douai, Wattignies and Denain apply to minors on Monday and Tuesday curfew from 20 to 6 o’clock, the Prime Minister’s office confirmed to the German Press Agency. According to French media, the blocks are still to be finalized and only affect “parts” of the cities.

Nice Mayor Éric Ciotti also announced a curfew for minors. It is valid from 9 to 6 o’clock in the city centre, where the most serious riots took place at the weekend. According to media reports, there are also restrictions in Lyon.

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced local curfews after a crisis meeting in Paris. The nationwide protests against the high cost of living were accompanied by violence and looting. The measures are “very local,” Lecornu said. The aim is to protect people and businesses that suffer from looting.

At least 3,000 businesses have been damaged or looted, said Trade Minister Serge Papin. Prime Minister Lecornu stressed that the “chaos” is limited to the city centers. “My determination to restore order is absolute,” Lecornu said. He will use all the resources available to the government if necessary.