French authorities have significantly increased security measures ahead of renewed protests scheduled for Saturday, responding to recent violent demonstrations that caused extensive damage in Paris and other cities. Prime Minister Sebastian Lecornu announced the deployment of military forces and specialized police units to major urban centers to prevent a recurrence of clashes between protesters and law enforcement.
In a move targeting groups known for violent tactics, including the black blocs and far-left extremists, Lecornu detailed the involvement of elite units such as the National Gendarmerie’s military components, the RAID (Research, Assistance, Intervention, Deterrence) tactical police unit, and the BRI (Brigade de Recherche et d’Intervention), which specializes in anti-gang operations in Paris. New armored Centaure vehicles are also being introduced onto the capital’s streets, aiming to bolster the government’s capacity to maintain order.
“This is about restoring public order, which is fundamental,” Lecornu said, emphasizing the deployment of experts with backgrounds in organized crime and counter-terrorism to free regular police for broader law enforcement duties. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez pledged to increase both the number and responsiveness of deployed forces for Saturday’s demonstration, aiming to swiftly counteract groups deliberately dispersing police resources.
The protests are linked to the gilets jaunes movement, which has officially notified authorities that it will hold its march starting from Bastille Square. The city of Paris and Marseille, which have endured consecutive nights of curfews following hundreds of incidents involving looting, break-ins, and firebombings, have seen damage estimated in the tens of millions of euros. Additional measures now prohibit the wearing of masks and goggles near schools and universities in the Paris area, alongside restrictions on transporting fuel, flammable gases, and possession of pyrotechnic devices.
Authorities also confirmed the arrest on Tuesday of Hodei Docampo Ciarra, a 34-year-old activist with known ultra-left affiliations and an “S” file indicating a national security threat. Ciarra is suspected of setting fire to the 143-year-old Limoges town hall during last weekend’s unrest. French police noted his history of involvement in various causes including pro-Palestine, Black Lives Matter, and environmental activism, and monitoring his activities amid concerns over militant behavior.
In judicial developments, six alleged rioters in Paris have received prison sentences after recent hearings. Among them, a 20-year-old man was sentenced to eight months, with six months suspended, for possession of a knife and brass knuckles, while his 19-year-old girlfriend received a five-month suspended sentence related to communications referencing a planned “guerrilla warfare” against riot police. Both were carrying items such as a gas mask and weapons at the time of arrest.
Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin reported that a total of 149 individuals across France have faced various jail sentences connected to the ongoing disturbances. Authorities intend to maintain a firm stance on public order as the nationwide unrest continues to challenge security forces.