Lorraine braces for 'Act II' protests as France deploys 70,000 police

A second day of protests, dubbed "Act II," is underway in Lorraine and across France on Saturday, October 24, following last week's mobilization that drew over 10,000 people and included violence and looting. President Emmanuel Macron has banned all gatherings in city centers, allowing only union marches on alternative routes to protect shops and public buildings. In response, 70,000 police and gendarmes are being deployed, with armored vehicles and water cannons, while local prefects have banned some protests, including a CGT march in Moselle. The "gilets jaunes" movement has called for further actions on October 31, with over 200 events planned, including 169 demonstrations and blockades of roundabouts and gas stations.