Police Violence and Injuries Spark Debate in French Student Protests

Severe injuries sustained by students protesting school conditions in France have sparked debate over police intervention methods and the ammunition used. Numerous official investigations have been launched regarding the incidents.

Severe Injury Incident Involving Eden

During student protests in Saint-Ouen-l'Aumône, 14-year-old Eden was struck in the face at close range by a tear gas canister fired by police. His family and lawyer stated that the teenager's jaw was broken and numerous teeth were damaged.

Following the incident, the family filed a complaint for attempted voluntary manslaughter. An official investigation was opened against the police officer involved for assault by a public official resulting in permanent disability or disfigurement.

IGPN Investigations and Wave of Violence

This case is one of 24 investigations conducted by the internal police oversight body, the IGPN, in connection with student unrest that has lasted for more than two weeks. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu described the demonstrations as the most violent in recent years.

According to data shared by authorities, 6,877 individuals, the majority of them minors, were detained during the events. While schools were reportedly burned or looted, approximately 700 police officers were also reported injured.

Controversial Weapons and Rights Organizations

The manner of police intervention has reignited calls from organizations such as Amnesty International and UN human rights experts for the ban of rubber bullet and grenade launchers, which are criticized as dangerous and disproportionate.

Interior Minister Laurent Nunez announced the suspension of the use of stun grenades following an incident in Lens that resulted in a 15-year-old boy losing his hand, while reporting that approximately 200 students had been injured.