France imposes curfew in Paris and several other cities
Photo: Protesters in Paris on October 17 (Getty Images)
French authorities imposed a partial curfew in Paris, Marseille, Nice, and several other cities on October 19 due to riots amid protests, according to Reuters.
Curfew in France
The curfew has been introduced in certain districts of several cities, including Paris, Lille, and Nice. These municipalities have faced pressure due to shortcomings in the security system against the backdrop of nationwide anti-government protests.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu ruled out a general curfew in Paris, but not a state of emergency. He stated that it is currently more appropriate to apply partial and local curfews.
"My determination to restore order is absolute," he told journalists.
Details of restrictions
The Paris Police Prefecture announced orders:
- Banning protests in certain areas of the French capital from 8:00 PM (6:00 PM GMT);
- Imposing a curfew around Place de la République and Les Halles from 11:00 PM.
Both orders will remain in effect until 6:00 AM on Tuesday, October 20.
"A police deployment is in place to ensure strict compliance with these measures," the police statement reads.
A source in Lecornu’s office reported that in Lille, Douai, Wattignies, and Denain, a curfew for minors from 8:00 PM to 6:00 AM was established for the next two days with the consent of local mayors.
In Nice, Mayor Éric Ciotti announced that he had signed an order imposing a nighttime curfew for minors in the center of Nice.
Marseille has banned gatherings and demonstrations.
Meanwhile, French trade unions have called for a new round of strikes and rallies on November 5.
Lecornu had requested the introduction of partial curfews following the unrest.
Furthermore, French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the nation after the massive protests and riots. The head of state strongly condemned "uncontrolled violence" and promised to punish all those responsible.
