French protests over living costs turn violent with luxury store lootings

Violent protests over rising living costs erupted across France on Saturday, October 17, leading to the looting of Apple, Louis Vuitton, and Hermès stores, alongside arson and clashes with police. President Emmanuel Macron condemned the violence, vowing prosecution for those responsible. Masked groups targeted high-end retailers in cities including Bordeaux, Lille, and Marseille, with additional damage to supermarkets and public buildings. Paris saw fires and tear gas use, while the Interior Ministry reported around 1,200 arrests and 150 police officers injured by late evening. The demonstrations drew an estimated 550,000 to 800,000 participants nationwide, according to officials and unions. The unrest overshadowed the initial cost-of-living grievances, leaving businesses disrupted and prompting strong government condemnation.