France is divided over who to blame for and what to learn from weekend riots

France is divided over whether far-left groups organised the violence during Saturday’s riots, or whether much of the looting was opportunistic. The government has blamed radical left-wing activists for planning attacks, while witnesses and officials caution that the events had multiple causes and do not represent the country as a whole.

French reports say more than 3,000 shops and businesses were looted, with stolen goods quickly appearing for sale online. Intelligence briefings cited by French media describe radical left groups influencing student protests, and footage shows masked young men attacking police vans; a parliamentary inquiry has been proposed. Police are reviewing CCTV and social media, while President Emmanuel Macron says those responsible will face justice.