Protesters briefly storm Marseille city hall during cost-of-living rally

A group of about ten protesters briefly forced their way into Marseille's city hall on Saturday, October 17, during a national demonstration against the high cost of living, before being dispersed by police. The intruders used barriers to break through the building's doors near the Old Port, shouting slogans like "It's the Revolution, we're taking the Bastille." They caused minor damage, including a tag in the lobby, and were quickly removed by security forces who then blocked access. Marseille's mayor Benoît Payan condemned the "absolutely unheard-of violence" by "idiots" and noted the "terrible symbol" of the intrusion, though damage was minimal. Three CRS companies were deployed as reinforcements. Nationwide, authorities recorded 140 actions, 32,800 participants, and 166 arrests.