France to deploy 70,000 police on Saturday to prevent civil unrest
Security forces to include elite units usually used for counter-terrorism after worst street violence in years
TL;DR
- France is deploying 70,000 police on Saturday to prevent civil unrest.
- Elite counter-terrorism and hostage rescue units will be part of the security forces.
- The government aims to be firm and not tolerate violence or looting.
- Last weekend's protests, initially cost-of-living related, devolved into widespread rioting and looting in several French cities.
- Similar protests are planned across other European countries over similar grievances.
- Some French cities have banned or restricted demonstrations, while others have refused rally requests.
- Critics accuse the government of authoritarianism and abuse of authority for limiting protests.
- Tensions are further fueled by a far-right party congress and a potential racially motivated shooting incident.