Lyon and Marseille hit hard as French demonstrations escalate Police nabs 94 protesters

French authorities arrested 94 individuals during nationwide protests on September 18, including 15 in Paris, the Ministry of the Interior reported. 

Across the country, at least 476 demonstrations took place, accompanied by reports of 20 street fires, according to Caliber.Az reports, citing French media.

In Lyon, the General Confederation of Labour (CGT) estimated that around 20,000 people participated, marking a significant turnout for the city.

The march faced disruptions from a group of protesters dressed in black who blocked the official route, prompting police to respond with tear gas after being targeted with pyrotechnic mortars.

A further confrontation occurred at Guillotine Square, leaving three people — including a France TV journalist and a police officer — requiring medical attention.

An unexpected demonstration unfolded at the French Ministry of Economy and Finance, where Sud-Rail railway workers arrived from Lyon station. The media reported that roughly twenty protesters entered the ministry premises through the car park and bicycle entrance.

Meanwhile, in Marseille, authorities estimated the crowd at 13,000, while CGT representatives claimed the figure was closer to 120,000. Similar disparities were noted during the September 10 demonstrations, where police counted 8,000 participants compared to the CGT’s 80,000.

By Tamilla Hasanova