France deploys 70,000 police as protests reignite riot fears

France is bracing for a new wave of unrest as protests are planned nationwide on Saturday, with authorities fearing a repeat of last weekend's riots. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez announced that a heavy police presence will prevent violence and looting, with 70,000 officers deployed across the country. Nunez stated there are numerous calls for violence and looting, clearly messages from rioters. Several demonstrations have already been banned, while others will be allowed if organizers provide supervisors and avoid locations prone to looting or public disorder. In Paris, a union-registered march was permitted but its route was changed. Curfews remain in effect in sensitive urban areas. Youth protests demanding better school conditions have continued for weeks, and last weekend other community groups joined, expanding demands to include rising living costs, leading to serious clashes on the sidelines.