France detains about 850 over anti-pension reform protests

French police have detained around 850 people for various violations during the protests against the increase in the retirement age in the country over the past few days.

The statement came from the country’s interior minister, Gerald Darmanen, speaking to the local TV channel BFM.

"So far, 855 people have been detained across France, of whom 843 have already been taken into custody," Darmanen said.

He also noted that mass rallies against the increase in the retirement age are expected in France on March 23.

The interior minister ordered 12,000 police officers and gendarmes to be deployed to ensure order during these demonstrations. Five thousand law enforcers will be concentrated in Paris, the minister added.

"Our task is to pacify those who intend to attack property and citizens, but, at the same time, ensure the freedom to hold mass actions," Darmanen stressed.