France is preparing to reinforce security operations with military personnel ahead of Saturday’s planned demonstrations, as authorities sustain curfew restrictions following a weekend of riots, looting and mass arrests.
Interior Minister Laurent Nunez told the National Assembly that troops from the Sentinelle operation would assume supporting duties currently handled by police and gendarmes, allowing regular security personnel to concentrate on maintaining public order during the rallies.
According to The Independent, Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has pledged a substantial police presence for the demonstrations and called for an immediate restoration of order. Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin has also promised a firm response to violence linked to the unrest, which led to thousands of arrests.
In Paris, overnight restrictions covering the Republique and Les Halles districts are to remain in effect on Tuesday, with police setting the curfew period from 11pm to 6am. The authorities said the measures could be extended for as long as necessary.
Marseille is also expected to impose nightly restrictions on minors through Friday, French media reported. Lecornu said curfew measures introduced after the weekend’s disturbances had contributed to a calmer situation across the country.
The unrest has extended beyond France, with similar incidents reported in Belgium, Albania and Italy. Italian authorities are planning to deploy 500 soldiers to Milan as part of security measures amid the disturbances.
