Rioters loot Frankfurt shops in nationwide German protests - NHKニュース

Rioters have looted stores in the western German city of Frankfurt as protests across the country demanded steps be taken to combat rising prices and improve education.

Demonstrators, mainly young people, took to the streets in more than 30 cities in Germany on Saturday, calling for anti-inflation measures and a better educational environment.

The organizer says the number of participants reached 120,000 nationwide.

In Frankfurt, some protesters turned violent, smashing storefronts and looting goods.

At a news conference on Sunday, local authorities said 17 stores in the city were damaged and five of them, including a gun shop, were looted. They also said that 54 people have been detained, and more than 100 police officers have been injured.

German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt told reporters that rioters and looters would be held accountable and face severe penalties.

The group which organized the protests says that it was not involved in the rioting. It revealed a plan to again hold nationwide protests.

German media say that in many cities, the demonstrations shed light on furious youth anger. They also say that if protesters want their activities to be accepted by society, they need to stay away from provocative and violent acts intended to take advantage of the situation.

In France, large-scale demonstrations took place again on Saturday, triggering clashes in some areas between protesters and security forces.