Hundreds of “vandals and looters” were arrested as violence once again swept across France on Saturday, which the government has attributed to the “ultra-left movement”, forcing some cities to enact curfews during Halloween.
Reported by:
Cherry Meigh Timbol
News Content Editor
Published November 1, 2026
PARIS – Police fired tear gas and clashed with protesters in Paris and other cities on Saturday, as hundreds of thousands marched across France against rising living costs and police violence. It was the third consecutive weekend of nationwide demonstrations, which were largely peaceful until tensions rose later in the day.
Turnout
Authorities said about 320,000 people took part nationwide, including 70,000 in Paris. Youth organisations put the figure near half a million, including 200,000 in the capital. The government’s estimate was lower than for the demonstrations of October 17 and 24.
Who marched and why
The movement brings together Yellow Vest activists, trade unions, and high school and university students. It initially focused on the cost of living, inequality and worsening learning conditions. After a security clampdown and serious injuries to some protesters, it broadened its demands to include civil liberties and the right to protest. Hard-left politician Jean-Luc Mélenchon joined the Paris march and accused the government of an increasingly authoritarian turn.
Halloween costumes and security measures
Some participants marched in costumes ranging from Spider-Man to Frankenstein. Placards played on the holiday. About 70,000 police and gendarmes were deployed nationwide. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez warned of a very high risk of disorder after dark.
Authorities barred access to some Paris locations overnight and set a curfew for unaccompanied minors near the Champs-Élysées. Paris marches were rerouted to the city’s edge to protect shops, government buildings and tourist areas.
Clashes and arrests
Police used water cannon and tear gas. Nuñez described the marches as largely orderly but condemned the disorder, including an incident in which a police officer was struck by a Molotov cocktail. Small fringe groups set scattered fires.
Authorities had warned that Halloween masks could be used to hide the identities of rioters.
Arrest figures differ by outlet. Reports ranged from at least 290 to more than 560 nationwide. (world-today-news)
Background
Earlier protests were more violent. On October 17, demonstrations in several cities, including Paris, Lyon and Marseille, saw clashes, looting and fires.
The Paris police prefecture reported 855 arrests in the capital that day and the death of a protester from cardiac arrest. Public debt is nearing 120% of economic output and borrowing costs are rising, which limits the government’s room to respond.
What’s next
Student organisers say they will join a broader demonstration called by workers and trade unions on November 5.
