French prosecutors have launched an investigation into attempted murder after petrol bombs were thrown at security forces during protests in Paris. The probe was announced on Sunday following clashes that also sparked widespread public outrage over a video showing an officer engulfed in flames.
Violent Clashes and Protests
The unrest erupted on Saturday as hundreds of thousands of people gathered in Paris and other cities for a third weekend of demonstrations against deteriorating public services and soaring living costs. The Paris police prefecture reported that several hundred rioters attacked security officers with various projectiles, including a Molotov cocktail.
Footage from the demonstrations captured a homemade incendiary device exploding near a security officer wearing protective gear, quickly engulfing his lower body in fire. Prosecutors confirmed that the inquiry was opened for the attempted murder of individuals holding public authority.
The prosecutor’s office stated that explosive devices were hurled at approximately 15 police officers and gendarmes, who are military police personnel belonging to the French armed forces. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez noted on Saturday that although the riots were less extensive than the severe unrest seen two weeks prior, the level of violence committed by certain individuals was extraordinary.
Injuries and Investigations
An evaluation of the injured personnel was underway, with prosecutors confirming that reported injuries included second-degree burns. A total of 159 law enforcement officers sustained injuries during the protests and Halloween celebrations, according to the interior ministry.
The targeted gendarme, speaking anonymously to broadcaster RTL, stated that his unit was under heavy assault from firebombs, glass bottles, paving stones, and shards of glass. He described being hit by significant incendiary devices and feeling the greasy flammable substance spread across his skin while his riot uniform’s leg and shin protections melted.
The gendarmerie reported that 13 members of that specific officer’s unit suffered injuries. The prosecutor’s office stated that no suspects have been arrested so far in connection with the firebomb attack, while investigators actively work to identify the perpetrators.
Political Impact
The demonstrations take place amid a charged political environment, with presidential elections approaching in six months. Far-right National Rally party leader and presidential frontrunner Marine Le Pen has promised to restore law and order if elected.
Le Pen posted on X that the individuals responsible for the firebomb attack must face punishment with the utmost severity. Meanwhile, the interior ministry reported that authorities arrested more than 770 people across France during the demonstrations.
