France to deploy troops ahead of fresh protests

France will deploy military personnel alongside police ahead of fresh protests scheduled for Saturday (October 24), following violent unrest and looting in several major cities, according to Reuters on Tuesday (October 20).

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced a major security operation after demonstrations on October 17 turned violent in Paris, Marseille, Lyon and other cities. The government acknowledged shortcomings in its initial response, including intelligence failures and inadequate police deployment.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said troops from the military’s Sentinelle operation would support security arrangements, allowing police and gendarmes to focus on maintaining public order.

The unrest has been fuelled by public anger over rising living costs and deteriorating public services. The government has also introduced targeted night-time curfews in affected areas to prevent further violence.

Authorities are preparing additional security measures as protest organisers call for renewed demonstrations on October 24.

-AH