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French Teen Loses Hand in Police Grenade Blast as School Protests Turn Violent
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News18•06-10-2026, 15:52
French Teen Loses Hand in Police Grenade Blast as School Protests Turn Violent
- •A 15-year-old high school student lost his hand and part of his lower arm after picking up a police sting-ball grenade during protests in the northern French town of Lens.
- •The clashes occurred amidst widespread demonstrations across France involving students demanding better classroom conditions, addressing teacher absences, and shortened school days.
- •Over 500 of France's 3,700 high schools were shut down or partially disrupted on Monday as the protests intensified, with demonstrators blocking school entrances.
- •The French government reported that the ongoing unrest has resulted in injuries to 215 students and 715 police officers, while accusing hard-left activists of hijacking the movement.
- •Despite government efforts to address grievances, students have vowed to continue their demonstrations, with further protests planned as anger over the education system persists.
Key Questions Answered
Students are protesting over grievances including teacher absences, poor classroom conditions, overloaded school timetables, and long school days running from 8 am to 6 pm.
A 15-year-old teenager lost his hand and part of his lower arm in Lens after picking up a police-fired sting-ball grenade that subsequently exploded.
More than 500 of France's 3,700 high schools were shut down or partially disrupted on Monday as the nationwide demonstrations continued to intensify.
