Nearly 2,400 people were arrested across France after cost-of-living demonstrations descended into clashes, looting and arson on Saturday, authorities said.

The Interior Ministry reported that about 1,000 police officers were injured during the unrest, which spread through several cities and included attacks on shops and public buildings.

Paris police recorded 855 arrests, describing the figure as a record. Prosecutors said 517 people remained in custody, including 171 minors, although the figures were provisional.

In Limoges, rioters set fire to the historic town hall, leaving much of the building gutted. Violence was also reported in Marseille, Lyon, Avignon and Grenoble. Police deployed tear gas, batons and water cannon in several cities.

Demonstrators were also injured. Le Figaro reported that a 17-year-old lost a hand after a grenade fired by police exploded in Saint-Etienne.

President Emmanuel Macron condemned the violence in a national address while acknowledging that peaceful protesters had legitimate grievances. He also promised transparency over the police response.

The demonstrations brought together people protesting fuel prices, low wages and difficulties facing farmers and firefighters. Students demanding better learning conditions also participated.

The Interior Ministry estimated nationwide turnout at 550,000, including 110,000 in Paris. The CGT trade union put attendance at 800,000.

The unrest comes amid growing political tensions ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with France’s debt and budget deficit restricting the government’s ability to respond through additional spending.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: France: Some 2,400 arrested after looting, arson during protests.