Key facts
- Protests have led to injuries, including lost eyes and hands, and one death.
- Police are facing scrutiny over the use of 'intermediary force' weapons.
- The IGPN is investigating 24 cases of alleged police misconduct.
- France plans to deploy 20% more police for upcoming demonstrations.
Police across France are under pressure to maintain security during further protests expected this weekend, while facing scrutiny over their riot-control tactics used during previous unrest. Demonstrations, initially sparked by student concerns over education resources and dilapidated infrastructure, have escalated into broader protests against living costs and government policy, drawing hundreds of thousands of people nationwide. The protests have seen clashes, looting, arson, and at least 2,400 arrests. Several teenagers have sustained serious injuries, including a 17-year-old who lost a hand to a grenade and another who lost the use of an eye. A 14-year-old was also injured by a tear gas canister. The use of 'intermediary force' weapons, such as rubber bullets and grenade launchers, has become a focal point of debate, with rights groups criticizing them as dangerous and disproportionate. The Interior Ministry plans to deploy 20% more police this Saturday compared to the previous weekend.