French President Emmanuel Macron says those who attacked public buildings and businesses will be prosecuted after nationwide protests

French President Emmanuel Macron said late Saturday that people who attacked public buildings and businesses during nationwide protests across France would be prosecuted and punished.

“No room for violence in our Republic,” Macron wrote on X on October 17. “Those who have broken, attacked the prefectures as well as businesses, looted even our town halls, will be prosecuted and punished.”

Macron expressed support for law enforcement and said authorities would stand against those he described as seeking to undermine French institutions and prevent peaceful demonstrators from expressing their demands.

The comments came after demonstrations over the cost of living, public services and education took place in Paris and cities including Marseille, Lyon, Lille, Bordeaux, Rennes and Limoges. The Interior Ministry said about 550,000 people participated nationwide, including 110,000 in Paris, while the CGT union put the national turnout at about 800,000.

Around 400 people were arrested, according to Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez. Public buildings and businesses were damaged in several cities, including Limoges, where the town hall was set on fire, while shops were looted in Paris and other locations.

Most of the demonstrations were peaceful, but clashes between police and groups of protesters were reported in several cities.