Paris prosecutors launched an investigation into attempted murder on Sunday after a Molotov cocktail was thrown at security forces during a demonstration in the French capital.
Details of the Attack
Prosecutors stated that explosive projectiles were aimed at around 15 gendarmes as well as police officers. So far, no suspects have been arrested in connection with this attack and investigators are still assessing the number and severity of injuries.
The attack occurred at the Charenton gate, where the march on Saturday concluded. Images and videos released show that an incendiary device exploded at the feet of a gendarme, setting his protective gear on fire.
Reported Injuries
Prosecutors reported that the injuries include second-degree burns and tinnitus, although these details are still considered provisional. Laurent Nunez, the Minister of the Interior, described the attack as attempted murder.
The French Ministry of the Interior reported a total of 779 arrests nationwide during the demonstrations and Halloween night. This figure includes both events and has been updated from the 565 temporary arrests reported on Saturday. Officials stated that the subsequent parts of the night passed without major incidents.
The Paris prosecutor's office separately reported 105 arrests in the capital: 88 related to the demonstrations and 17 related to Halloween night. They stated that 89 people are in custody, including at least 22 minors.
The demonstrations focused on the high cost of living and government policies. The Ministry of the Interior estimated the number of participants nationwide at 320,000, while unions estimate that nearly 500,000 people took part in the demonstrations.
The total number of arrests nationwide is less than the 1,314 recorded during the protests the previous Saturday and 2,628 on October 17, when riots and looting occurred. Security officials had increased security measures ahead of Halloween night due to online calls for violence.
Read more: More than 290 people arrested in France due to protests
