French police suspend stun grenade use amid student protests and brutality accusations

French police have suspended the use of stun grenades during student protests, a decision announced by Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez on Wednesday, October 7, 2026. This temporary halt comes amid widespread accusations of police brutality and follows a serious incident on Monday in Lens, northern France, where a 15-year-old high school student lost a hand. Authorities are investigating the exact circumstances of the injury, with conflicting reports on whether the teenager picked up the device or was directly struck by it.

The suspension is a response to escalating student-led demonstrations that have been ongoing for over two weeks across France. Students are protesting against perceived deficiencies in the education system, including teacher shortages, dilapidated facilities, and inadequate funding. While Interior Minister Nuñez has dismissed broad accusations of excessive force, 18 investigations have been initiated by the police watchdog regarding the proportionality of police actions during the unrest.

Tens of thousands have participated in the nationwide protests, with at least 250,000 recorded on Tuesday alone. The demonstrations have led to over 6,600 arrests, predominantly involving minors, and have also seen other severe injuries among protesters, including one student losing an eye and another losing several teeth. French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu is expected to address the nation regarding the ongoing crisis.