Macron condemns violence after riots lead to looting and mass arrests

French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned the violence in France after riots that involved looting and mass arrests. The head of state stressed that protesters who attacked government buildings must answer for their crimes.

The statement was reported on 18 October 2026 by the news channel Al Jazeera. According to its report, the unrest led to looting, while authorities detained a large number of people.

What the source does not specify

The report does not say in which French cities the riots took place, what triggered them, how many people were arrested or what damage was caused. It also does not identify which government buildings were attacked. Those details may emerge as further official information is published.

With his statement, Macron took a firm line against attacks on state property and said those responsible should be held accountable.