French Police Suspend Stun Grenades After Protester Injury 2026

France has suspended the use of stun grenades by police at high-school demonstrations, Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced on Wednesday, following a 15-year-old protester losing a hand in Lens. The decision comes amid mounting accusations of police brutality during a fortnight of protests marred by violent clashes that have injured hundreds.

Interior Minister Orders Temporary Halt

Laurent Nuñez told RTL radio that he had ordered a temporary halt to the use of the grenades “in the context of the high-school students’ movement.” The suspension will remain in place “until we know exactly what happened” in Lens on Monday, when the teenager was injured. Authorities have not confirmed whether the boy picked up the grenade or was struck by it, but said up to 200 protesters were hurling projectiles at police when the riot squad intervened.

The boy’s mother told BFMTV on Wednesday that her son’s hand had been amputated. “His life has been stolen. He’s a 15-year-old kid, how can children be treated like that?” she said, adding that her son had not tried to pick up the grenade. The incident has intensified scrutiny of police tactics during the protests.

Injuries Mount Amid Protests Over Teacher Shortages

At least 215 teenagers and 85 school staff have been injured since the start of the protests over chronic teacher shortages, crowded classes, dilapidated buildings, and long school days. About 750 police officers have also been wounded. The demonstrations, which began two weeks ago, have seen frequent clashes between students and police.

Nuñez said 18 internal police investigations have been launched over allegations of brutality during the protests. The suspensions of stun grenades is a significant move, as these weapons are typically used for crowd control. Critics argue they can cause severe injuries, especially when used in confined spaces or against young people.

Key Takeaways from the Suspension

• Stun grenades suspended at high-school protests following a serious injury to a 15-year-old.
• Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez ordered the temporary halt pending investigation.
• Protests continue over teacher shortages and poor school conditions.
• Hundreds injured, including 215 teenagers, 85 school staff, and 750 police officers.
• 18 internal police investigations launched over brutality allegations.

Comparison of Injuries and Investigations

Background: Why Are French Students Protesting?

The protests stem from long-standing issues in the French education system. Students and teachers are demanding better working conditions, smaller class sizes, and increased funding for schools. The government has faced criticism for not addressing these problems adequately. The use of stun grenades has become a flashpoint, symbolizing heavy-handed police tactics.

This is not the first time French police have faced backlash over crowd control methods. In recent years, similar concerns have been raised during yellow vest protests and other demonstrations. The suspension of stun grenades may be a temporary measure, but it highlights the ongoing tension between authorities and protesters.

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