French police arrest dozens ahead of nationwide protests over prices and inequality

Around 40 people were arrested in Paris ahead of nationwide demonstrations on Saturday against high prices and inequality, with police citing weapons and prohibited protective gear among the reasons. The protests, which began last month at high schools in poor northern suburbs, have grown into a movement against inequality and weak public spending. Large police presence was visible near landmarks like the Champs-Elysees, which were excluded from official protest routes. Hundreds of demonstrations were planned across France, with protesters in hi-vis vests blocking streets and trash cans set alight in Marseille. Police face criticism over demonstrator injuries, while the internal watchdog investigates alleged police violence.