France is set to deploy a massive, more mobile security operation for further demonstrations on Saturday, after Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu acknowledged failures in the authorities’ response to last weekend’s violence and looting. The unrest erupted on October 17, with clashes and attacks reported in Paris, Marseille, Lyon and other cities. In Limoges, the historic town hall was set on fire, with much of the older section destroyed. Lecornu told parliament the deployment next Saturday will be “massive”. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said the security strategy will be revised after police deployments during the previous weekend were too static. The new plan calls for greater numbers of personnel and a more flexible approach meant to respond quickly to groups moving between locations. Ministers also acknowledged shortcomings in staffing and intelligence. Authorities have launched investigations into the rioting, looting and attacks on public buildings. On Tuesday, police arrested a 34-year-old man suspected of involvement in the arson attack on Limoges town hall. Investigators reportedly identified him through DNA evidence, and the case remains under investigation. The government is also facing questions over how the violence escalated, with political tensions rising ahead of France’s 2027 presidential election. Officials have said online messaging apps and social media may have helped coordinate activity, including groups shifting locations before police could respond. Further demonstrations are expected as campaigners continue to challenge the government on education funding and living costs, including pressure linked to education and fuel costs. Police are expected to distinguish peaceful protest from criminal activity during the next planned events.