Paris Enforces Overnight Curfews Following Wave of Destructive Riots
Paris returns to calm after authorities impose overnight curfews to curb widespread rioting and looting across France. Get the latest updates on the unrest.
POLICY WIRE — Paris, France — The French capital experienced a night of relative tranquility on Tuesday, marking the first peaceful evening since a weekend of intense rioting and looting swept across the nation.
Authorities implemented targeted overnight curfews in several cities to restore order following days of violence. In Paris, a curfew remained in effect from 11 p.m. Monday until 6 a.m. Tuesday, with police helicopters monitoring key areas like the Place de la République to ensure compliance.
The unrest, which began with protests over rising living costs and deteriorating school conditions, resulted in approximately 2,400 arrests since Saturday. Demonstrators had previously clashed with law enforcement, set fire to vehicles, and damaged public infrastructure, including a historic city hall.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu confirmed on X that the localized curfews were effective in maintaining stability. He noted that regional prefects and mayors will continue to determine if further restrictions are necessary on a nightly basis.
Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin reported that 149 individuals had been jailed by midday Tuesday. Of the thousands arrested, over 800 have already faced prosecutors, with many receiving immediate sentencing. Darmanin emphasized that the government intends to remain extremely firm, even instructing prosecutors to appeal sentences they deem too lenient.
In a specific example of the judicial crackdown, three men aged 20 to 25 were sentenced to 10 months in prison for looting a video game store in Lille. Meanwhile, the National Assembly has announced an official inquiry into the violence and the government’s policing strategy, with a report expected by the end of 2026.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
