Paris protests persist despite police ban, authorities deploy 70,000 security personnel
Demonstrations by Yellow Vest supporters and other groups continued in Paris on Saturday despite a police prohibition, prompting the deployment of tens of thousands of police and the use of tear gas.
Protesters in Paris and other French cities continued to demonstrate on Saturday despite a police order banning gatherings in the capital. The Paris Police Prefecture rejected multiple permit applications, citing recent unrest that resulted in numerous arrests and clashes with law enforcement.
The police statement warned that certain individuals intended to target public institutions and state services, posing a serious risk to public safety and the normal operation of services.
Authorities also barred a planned Yellow Vest rally at Place de la Concorde for security reasons. Nevertheless, several Yellow Vest representatives, including Benjamin Ball of the coordination group and spokesperson Azelma Sigaux, were arrested near the National Assembly.
France's Interior Ministry expected up to 170,000 participants nationwide and mobilised about 70,000 police and security forces. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said the risk level was comparable to previous Saturdays and urged officials to remain vigilant.
Video footage showed police deploying tear gas and detaining demonstrators, while some protesters threw projectiles. The demonstrations addressed the high cost of living, with student and teacher unions joining the Yellow Vest movement.
Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu is scheduled to meet union leaders on Monday to discuss wages and purchasing power, though union representatives have indicated plans for additional strikes on Tuesday.
The protests have coincided with a rise in support for National Assembly deputy Marine Le Pen in recent polls following her candidacy announcement in October.