---
title: "French president pledges zero tolerance for mass looting "
url: https://radiomoldova.md/p/87617/french-president-pledges-zero-tolerance-for-mass-looting
published: 2026-10-19T08:48:18Z
language: en
author: "Rodica Mazur"
section: "International"
source: radiomoldova.md
---

# French president pledges zero tolerance for mass looting 

> French President Emmanuel Macron pledged decisive legal action against rioters and looters on Sunday, following intense urban unrest and public building attacks across multiple French cities over living costs.

![](https://storage.radiomoldova.md/images/3593c8f2-c062-4760-8e8d-6627d3fc49ac.jpg)

French President Emmanuel Macron pledged decisive legal action against rioters and looters on Sunday, following intense urban unrest and public building attacks across multiple French cities over living costs.

**Vowing zero tolerance**

Speaking in a televised address to the nation, Macron drew a sharp distinction between citizens expressing legitimate grievances over soaring fuel and living expenses and organized groups committing vandalism.

*“Those who sought to subvert the Republic will be held accountable,”* said Macron, adding that looters must repay stolen goods and cover property destruction.

*“We must never confuse legitimate demonstrators with those who destroy, break, and loot,”* the French head of state noted, attributing recent price surges to supply disruptions linked to tensions in the Persian Gulf.

**Emergency support and security measures**

Macron announced an upcoming diplomatic mission to Gulf states starting Monday to help secure fuel and natural gas supplies for France. Domestically, the government will deploy rapid aid funds for affected shopkeepers and artisans.

Public buildings were targeted during the unrest, including municipal offices in Marseille, town halls in Limoges and Lyon, and the prefect’s official residence in Bordeaux. Interior ministry investigations are underway to identify tactical and intelligence shortfalls.

Regional prefects have been granted authority to implement targeted assembly bans and emergency security measures in coordination with local mayors. Macron also announced structured consultations with students, trade unions, and youth representatives to address vocational and educational concerns.

*“We will show zero tolerance,”* said Macron. *“Listening and dialogue do not equate to weakness or impunity.”*

Translation by **Iurie Tataru**

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