France to deploy 76,000 security forces ahead of planned protests

The French Ministry of the Interior has announced it will deploy 76,000 police officers and gendarmes to maintain order during around 250 demonstrations called by trade unions across the country.

Speaking to BFMTV, Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said, “This is already the third day that our law enforcement personnel will be monitoring marches and protests nationwide.

There are approximately 250 protest events planned. While the numbers are slightly lower than on September 18, we still have 76,000 officers on duty, including around 5,000 in Paris alone.”

The minister also warned that some demonstrations could attract radical elements but stressed that authorities are prepared to ensure peaceful conditions for those wishing to express their views without resorting to violence.

By Aghakazim Guliyev