French authorities have detained 2,700 people since Saturday in connection with widespread rioting and looting during nationwide anti-government protests, Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Thursday.
Speaking to French broadcaster LCI, Darmanin confirmed that police had taken thousands of people into custody following unrest that swept through major cities, including Paris, Lyon, Marseille and Lille.
The justice minister also announced that 217 people had been imprisoned following expedited court proceedings related to the violence.
According to AFP, Darmanin described the judicial response as exceptionally firm, revealing that approximately half of those jailed had no previous criminal record.
More than 1,000 detainees have appeared before the courts, with authorities seeking to accelerate prosecutions amid concerns over further unrest.
The arrests followed nationwide demonstrations on October 17 against rising living costs, fuel prices and deteriorating public services. Although many demonstrations were peaceful, violence erupted in several cities, with businesses looted, vehicles set ablaze and public buildings vandalised.
In response, French authorities introduced targeted curfews and restrictions on public gatherings.
In Paris, overnight curfews were imposed around Place de la République and the Les Halles shopping district, two areas affected by the disturbances.
Similar measures were introduced in northern cities, including Lille, Douai, Wattignies and Denain, where restrictions on unaccompanied minors were implemented in designated areas.
President Emmanuel Macron has also announced tighter restrictions on demonstrations, accusing far-left groups of exploiting public anger to incite violence.
The government has maintained that legitimate peaceful protests can continue, while warning that gatherings considered a threat to public order could face restrictions.
The measures have prompted criticism from opposition figures and legal representatives, who have raised concerns about the government’s handling of demonstrations and the speed of judicial proceedings.
French authorities remain on heightened alert as protest organisers prepare further demonstrations, raising fears of renewed clashes and unrest over the weekend.
