French Interior Ministry says around 1,000 arrested during Saturday protests
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said around 1,000 people were arrested in Saturday's protests, and pointed to looting, smashed shops, attacks on gendarmes and security forces, and measures to contain the violence.
French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced on Saturday that authorities arrested around 1,000 people during the wave of protests that took place across the country today.
Nuñez said many shops and stores were looted and smashed during the demonstrations, noting material damage in a number of areas.
He added that groups from the far left took part in the actions and attacked gendarmes and security forces, contributing to rising tensions on the ground.
The minister said the number of detainees could rise, noting that authorities have taken measures to prevent gatherings and to try to avoid cities being targeted by attacks from extremists.
