Protest turns violent in Perpignan

On Saturday, October 17, a demonstration in Perpignan against high living costs and underfunded education turned violent, leading to damage and looting in the city center. The unrest began peacefully but escalated in the afternoon, particularly near the avenue de Grande-Bretagne.

Businesses and public property damaged

According to the prefecture of the Pyrénées-Orientales, six stores were looted, and a police vehicle was damaged during the violence. Benches, waste containers, and other public property were also destroyed, with some set on fire.

Law enforcement targeted

Police officers were attacked with stones, petanque balls, and Molotov cocktails during the incidents. Two officers were injured, and twenty people were arrested for offenses including vandalism, theft, and assault on law enforcement.

Municipal response and solidarity

On Monday, October 19, over a hundred residents, merchants, and elected officials gathered in front of the town hall to condemn the violence. The city joined the Association of Mayors of France (AMF) to show support for affected businesses and public services.

Mayor calls for strict action

Perpignan’s mayor, Louis Aliot, criticized the events as a day of « looting, destruction, and insurrectional acts. » He called for « the greatest firmness » against those responsible and urged authorities to « seek and severely sanction » them.

Broader concerns raised

Aliot also criticized political figures he claims « fuel inflammatory speeches to bring the State to its knees, » suggesting they share some responsibility for the violence. The city warns that public demonstrations alone will not be enough to address the underlying issues.