French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said on Tuesday, October 20, that local officials would impose more curfews in specific areas where needed after overnight restrictions helped calm cities following weekend riots and looting.
He said local officials would work with mayors to decide whether to extend the curfews or introduce them. He said the government would not impose a nationwide curfew. In Paris, restrictions covered Place de la République and the Les Halles shopping district.
Several other cities also restricted movement at night, including for minors. Police reported no major incidents overnight. Lecornu credited the curfews with helping keep the peace.
The unrest began alongside demonstrations over the cost of living and conditions in schools. Crowds gathered across France on Saturday, before some protests involved arson and looting. More than 2,500 people were arrested, according to reports.
Businesses and public buildings were damaged. The government is continuing to address the unrest. Further demonstrations have been called for Saturday.