French authorities impose curfews after weekend riots in multiple cities

French authorities have imposed curfews in parts of Paris and other cities following widespread rioting over the weekend, PBS NewsHour reported. The unrest included looting, arson, vandalism, and violent clashes with law enforcement, with more than 2,000 arrests made.

The rioting resulted in significant property damage, with an estimated 3,000 businesses across the country damaged or ransacked, PBS NewsHour noted. Scenes included vehicles set on fire, broken glass scattered on sidewalks, and debris smoldering in the streets.

Government officials acknowledged failures in their handling of the unrest and announced an investigation to identify those responsible, according to PBS NewsHour. French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the nation, highlighting the extraordinary violence faced by law enforcement officers.

CBS News also reported that the curfews took effect Monday night as authorities sought to restore order after the weekend's violent protests. The unrest followed mass nationwide protests on October 17, which saw over 600,000 people participate in peaceful rallies across France.