Paris shops ransacked after October 17 protest violence

A violent spree of looting and vandalism struck shops around Place de la République in Paris on Saturday evening, October 17, following a protest march. Business owners were left in shock and tears as their stores were ransacked. A hairdresser on Boulevard Magenta described masked youths using oversized hammers to destroy his salon, stealing makeup, coffee machines, and the cash register. The couple expressed bewilderment, insisting they had no connection to the demonstration that triggered the destruction. The area became an epicenter of urban violence with significant material damage. Streets were littered with debris, broken glass, and fire residue, while police units worked late into the night to curb ongoing pillaging.