The yellow vest protests in France have continued to cause destruction despite dwindling numbers.

Demonstrations broke out March 16 on the Champs-Elysées, where protesters wreaked havoc on the luxury stores on the famous street. According to The New York Times, the protest March 17 were meant to be an “ultimatum” to the “government and powerful.”

Le Fouquet, a restaurant that is patronized by the upper class, was burned down by protestors. The restaurant has long been a symbol of upper-class power.  Nicolas Sarkozy celebrated his presidential victory there in 2007.

Protesters moved up the Champs-Elysées, smashing the windows of luxury stores until they were stopped by police near the Arc de Triomphe.

Despite Interior Minister Christophe Castaner reporting numbers dropping to 7,000-8,000 and leader Eric Drouet leaving the movement, the yellow vest protesters were able to link up with other protesters over the weekend, according to The Associated Press.

The yellow vest protests were sparked by a gas tax proposed by President Emmanuel Macron. It has expanded to represent general distaste for the current government.

Drastic restriction allowed administrative officials, not just judiciary ministers, to ban protests.

A violent clash between protesters and police led to Prime Minister Edouard Philippe firing Paris Police Chief Michel Delpuech as well as his Chief of Staff Pierre Gaudin, according to The Associated Press.

Editor’s Note: Information from The Associated Press and The New York Times was used in this report.