Curfew imposed in parts of central Paris and other cities

French authorities have implemented overnight curfews across parts of central Paris and several other cities following a weekend marked by widespread riots and looting throughout the nation, causing extensive damage to property and commercial establishments.

Police in Paris stated that the curfew operates between 23:00 local time and 06:00 in the Place de la République area, where protesters gathered over the weekend, as well as around the Les Halles shopping district. Furthermore, unauthorized public gatherings have been banned in multiple downtown zones.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

Partial curfews restricting movement and gatherings for young individuals were also announced in southern cities including Marseille, Bordeaux, Nice, and Lyon, alongside Lille and other northern towns.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez, who faced intense criticism from opposition politicians regarding preparedness for the unrest, admitted that law enforcement had "lost control" in certain municipalities. However, President Emmanuel Macron rejected his resignation offer, citing the necessity of his continued command.

"There will be a law that will be put in place to find ways of making sure that those who have damaged properties will have to pay."

Sébastien Lecornu

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced after a crisis meeting on Monday that local mayors are granted the authority to enforce curfews where necessary. He stated that the government will allocate recovery funds for impacted districts and recover those costs from individuals responsible for the violence, while also introducing a partial unemployment fund for affected workers.