Paris Curfew Clears Square After Weekend Riots

Unrest in Paris escalated Monday as police enforced a curfew on Place de la République, preventing a repeat of weekend riots that saw widespread looting and violence. Authorities deployed a massive security presence to disperse crowds before restrictions took effect. The weekend's protests, which began Saturday, resulted in over 2,400 arrests and damage to roughly 3,000 shops nationwide. While many demonstrators cited political grievances, some individuals openly admitted to Nettavisen they were present solely to loot, highlighting a challenge for authorities. By late Monday evening, the square was nearly empty as the curfew was largely respected. However, some protesters warned they would defy similar restrictions if mass demonstrations resume, with organizations vowing to continue protests.