Lyon bans all Saturday protests after riots

French authorities have banned all demonstrations in Lyon on Saturday, October 24, following riots and looting that occurred during protests on October 17. The Rhône prefecture announced the decision Thursday, citing the risk of further violence. The ban comes amid heightened security measures nationwide, with police mobilization for Saturday's planned social protests set at 20 percent higher than the previous week. Reinforcements include elite units like the Raid and GIGN, helicopters, and armored vehicles. A curfew remains in effect in Lyon's city center, and similar restrictions have been imposed in parts of Paris. The government is facing criticism over its handling of the unrest, with President Emmanuel Macron convening intelligence services and Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu meeting political parties. Several foreign countries, including Thailand and Malaysia, have issued travel advisories for France, while the CGT union has called for strikes beginning November 5.