Hundreds of students have staged protests in Liege, Belgium, over concerns about the French-language education system, with local reports indicating that at least 107 people have been arrested in connection with recent demonstrations. The unrest, which began earlier this week, reflects growing dissatisfaction with rising education costs, overcrowded classrooms, and challenges in accessing study materials.

Authorities issued warnings to local businesses advising early closures amid fears of escalating riots. Belgium’s official government alert system, BEAlert, urged shopkeepers on October 8 to close their premises due to what it described as “major unrest.” Police also recommended that residents avoid the city center of Liege, citing severe traffic disruptions caused by ongoing protests. The city’s main train station was temporarily closed but later reopened.

While local officials were not immediately available to confirm the exact number or nature of arrests, the Belga news agency reported that detentions were related to charges including property damage and arson. Footage circulating on social media showed scenes of broken glass, fires, and hundreds of mostly young demonstrators confronting police, who were documented checking students for weapons during a protest on October 7.

The protests resonate with similar demonstrations in France, where students have expressed grievances over education policies. Some Belgian students acknowledged coordination and mutual support with their French counterparts. “We support each other because we’re facing pretty much the same issues,” said 19-year-old student Alfred.

This unrest in Liege follows earlier clashes in June between protesters and police in Brussels. Those demonstrations were sparked by opposition to education reforms, notably a tuition hike for most students in Belgium’s French-speaking community, raising fees from €835 to €1,194 (approximately S$1,700).

Liege mayor Willy Demeyer spoke to Belgian broadcaster RTBF, expressing hope for a return to calm and the establishment of dialogue. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as the protests unfold.