Tens of thousands of people took part in protests in central Paris and Rome on Saturday organised by hard-left parties against government economic reform plans and austerity measures, Reuters reported. The protest in Rome turned violent when a large splinter group - many wearing masks and helmets - threw rocks, eggs, firecrackers and oranges at riot police in front of the industry ministry. Riot police with batons charged the group, with protesters fighting back with rocks and firecrackers. One man lost a hand when a firecracker exploded before he could throw it. There were dozens of lighter injuries among police and protesters, and at least six arrests, police said. -- SPA 22:56 LOCAL TIME 19:56 GMT تغريد