French government under fire after 80 shops vandalised in Paris riot

Police seemed overrun as rioters and protesters filled the Champs-Elysees on Saturday, the 18th week of ‘yellow vest’ protests

President Macron promised to come up with strong measures to prevent further violence

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Firefighters extinguish a blaze in a Longchamp shop in Paris. Photo: EPA

Published: 12:08pm, 18 Mar 2019Updated: 9:47pm, 18 Mar 2019

The French government has admitted its security measures were “insufficient” to stem an arson and looting rampage by black-clad anarchists during a “yellow vest” protest along the Champs-Elysees in Paris on Saturday.

President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday he is considering banning demonstrations on the famous road.

He summoned a meeting with the interior and justice ministers on Monday and promised to take “strong measures” as soon as possible to prevent more riots this weekend.

Police appeared overwhelmed on Saturday as demonstrators ran amok on the avenue, with retailers there saying some 80 shops and businesses were vandalised.

Junior Interior Minister Laurent Nunez told RTL radio on Monday police had prepared for an upsurge in violence but were “less reactive” than at previous demonstrations. He said they were careful about using rubber ball weapons because of injuries they had caused.

Protesters clash with police in front of Fouquet's brasserie. Photo: EPA

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