Paris Shopkeepers Stockpile Weapons Ahead of Protests

Paris shopkeepers and residents are buying pepper gel and other self-defense sprays ahead of another weekend of protests, saying they fear further looting and do not trust police to protect them. A Paris gun-shop owner reported demand had climbed eight to ten times its usual level; the sprays are available without a permit in France, unlike firearms. The purchases follow demonstrations over rising living costs and deteriorating school conditions that escalated into vandalism, fires and looting in Paris and other cities. Authorities and businesses are preparing for fresh rallies as unions, student groups and the Yellow Vest movement call for demonstrations.