Afghanistan, Oct. 19 -- French authorities arrested nearly 2,400 people after nationwide protests over the cost of living and deteriorating public services escalated into clashes, arson and looting, prompting President Emmanuel Macron to condemn the violence.
The demonstrations took place on Saturday, October 17, drawing hundreds of thousands of people across France. The Interior Ministry estimated turnout at around 550,000, while the CGT trade union put the figure at approximately 800,000. Many participants marched peacefully, although violence broke out in several cities.
In Limoges, a fire severely damaged the city's historic town hall. In Lyon, a tourist office was set ablaze, while shops were looted and clashes erupted between protes...