France Braces for Further Unrest with Curfews, Armed Merchants, and Heavy Police Presence

France is tightening security measures and implementing new restrictions in response to escalating violence linked to protests against the high cost of living. Several cities have imposed curfews as the government expects renewed unrest following recent riots that severely damaged commerce in Paris.

The recent wave of riots led to the degradation of 450 businesses and the looting of 228 shops in Paris alone, according to the police prefecture. Merchants are responding to the threat by arming themselves; Yves Gollety, owner of a Paris armory, reported a tenfold surge in sales since last week's pillages. His stock, including rubber ball launchers, is reportedly depleted, highlighting the widespread fear among local businesses of further looting.

Simultaneously, municipalities are urging caution for upcoming demonstrations, with residents expressing anxiety over potential violence. Following the heavy damage and disorder on October 17, intelligence services had underestimated the scale of the disturbances, drawing criticism over the prediction failure.

Looking ahead to Saturday, October 24, the government has deployed a massive security force, mobilizing 70,000 gendarmes and police officers nationwide to oversee protests against the cost of living. Simultaneously, prefectural authorities have issued bans on demonstrations in Marseille, Lyon, and other cities to prevent further disorder.

This comprehensive approach—ranging from curfews and heavy policing to merchants preparing defenses—reflects the tense atmosphere gripping France amid political debates and social unrest. Some residents are even considering leaving the affected urban areas out of precaution.