Paris wakes up to widespread destruction after violent protests

French police announced the arrest of 855 people in connection with the violence that occurred in Paris during Saturday's protests, in what they described as a record toll.

At the same time, the public prosecutor's office confirmed that at least 517 people were detained, including 171 minors, after a night of confrontations, fires, looting, and vandalism. 

The French capital woke up on Sunday to widespread destruction, with debris and broken bicycles scattered across the streets, vehicles set ablaze, and storefronts smashed, as cleaning crews began clearing the rubble.

Paris and other French cities witnessed on Saturday confrontations between police and protesters, accompanied by fires and widespread looting, on the sidelines of protests against the rising cost of living.

Deputy Mayor of Paris Lamia El Aaraje said the capital experienced an unprecedented level of violence, referring to the scale of damage to public and private property.

The public prosecutor's office announced that the preliminary toll included 346 adults and 171 minors, noting that arrests continued throughout the night until 6 a.m. Sunday local time.

It explained that the arrests were made on charges including possession of stolen goods and assembly with intent to commit violence and vandalism, confirming that the figures remain subject to change.

(Source: Agencies)