PARIS: At least 135 people have been arrested in France as protests resumed following a call by labour unions, prompting authorities to tighten security arrangements across the country.

According to foreign media reports, a new wave of demonstrations has begun against rising inflation and declining purchasing power. In response, security has been strengthened nationwide, with 70,000 police officers deployed.

Authorities fear that incidents of looting and vandalism similar to those witnessed during violent protests last week could occur again.

Following last week’s unrest, which involved violence, looting and damage to property, restrictions have been imposed on demonstrations in several French cities. In Lyon, police fired tear gas to disperse protesters who defied the ban.

According to France’s interior minister, police seized various types of weapons during Saturday’s demonstrations and arrested 135 people.

The Yellow Vests movement, labour unions and student groups have announced more than 700 demonstrations across the country. In Marseille, a ban on protests was lifted, allowing labour unions to organise a rally, while demonstrations are also scheduled in Strasbourg.

Meanwhile, restrictions on protests remain in place in several cities, including Nancy, Metz, Besançon, Belfort, Rouen, Le Havre, Toulon and Limoges.

Authorities have warned that the latest demonstrations could lead to a repeat of last week’s violence and have further tightened security measures to maintain law and order.

Last week’s violent protests left several people, including police officers, injured. More than 3,000 shops were reportedly damaged or affected by looting.

The ongoing demonstrations over inflation and declining purchasing power have forced French authorities to take additional measures to prevent further unrest and maintain public order.