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Authorities in Marseille, southern France, have banned all gatherings and demonstrations between noon and 8pm on Monday following weekend violence and looting during protests over the rising cost of living.
The restriction was announced by the police as the city prepared for the arrival of France’s Interior Minister, Laurent Nunez, later on Monday.
The minister’s visit comes after Marseille’s mayor criticised security arrangements for Saturday’s demonstrations, which formed part of nationwide protests against soaring living costs.
The protests escalated into violence in several parts of France, with clashes between demonstrators and police, looting and fires reported.
France’s Prime Minister, Sebastien Lecornu, said 1,200 people were arrested during protests across the country on Saturday, while 150 police officers were injured.
The demonstrations, driven by anger over the high cost of living, descended into what authorities described as intense violence, raising fresh concerns about public order and security.
Marseille, France’s second-largest city, is among the areas facing renewed restrictions as officials seek to prevent further clashes and protect residents and businesses.
The ban will remain in force from 12 noon to 8pm on Monday.
