France has jailed 217 rioters in fast-track trials after weekend looting, leaving lawyers angry and defendants bewildered

Justice minister Gérald Darmanin said 2,700 people have been arrested across France and more than 1,000 have already appeared in court. Half of those detained had no prior criminal record. The number jailed is expected to rise. One defendant told a Paris court 'I didn't know it was theft' as the rushed hearings for the October 17 violence got under way.

A far-left activist is being prosecuted for 'attempting to kill a policeman' during the riots.

President Emmanuel Macron blamed 'seditious' ultra-left groups who aim 'to bring down the Republic'.

Police numbers for Saturday's protests will be 20% higher, backed by soldiers and armoured vehicles.