Teenager Loses Hand After Picking Up Police Grenade During France School Protests

A 15-year-old student has lost a hand after picking up a police grenade during nationwide student protests over poor classroom conditions in France.

The teenager was injured on Monday in the northern town of Lens after reportedly picking up a sting-ball grenade fired by riot police. A police union source said the device exploded while it was in his hand.

The incident occurred as students across France continued protests that have disrupted classes at hundreds of schools since late September.

Students have been protesting against teacher shortages, overcrowded timetables, deteriorating school buildings and classrooms that are poorly adapted to rising temperatures.

More than 400 of France’s approximately 3,700 high schools were partially or completely closed on Monday, according to the Education Ministry. Authorities also expected about one-third of the 468 high schools in the Paris region serving teenagers aged 15 to 17 to be affected.

In Paris, students gathered outside schools carrying placards, while some others entered classrooms to attend lessons. One sign outside Turgot High School read: “We’re missing our lessons to give you one.”

In Bordeaux, some students returned to class while others continued protesting in the presence of riot police. Police used tear gas after some protesters reportedly launched fireworks in their direction.

In Lille, masked protesters damaged bus shelters and set fire to rubbish bins, prompting police to use tear gas.

The protests began on September 17 at a high school in Créteil, a suburb of Paris, initially in support of teachers who were demanding more staff and resources. The movement later spread across the country and, in some areas, escalated into vandalism and clashes with security forces.

According to the Education Ministry, 24 schools have been burned or vandalised since the protests began, while more than 5,000 people have been arrested. About 85 per cent of those arrested are reportedly minors.

The French Human Rights League has accused security forces of using excessive force against protesters, many of whom are legally minors. The organisation's president, Nathalie Tehio, said authorities should show greater restraint when dealing with children.

Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has announced measures aimed at addressing the protesters’ concerns, including efforts to fill vacancies caused by long-term teacher absences and unfilled positions.

He has also scheduled a meeting with regional leaders to discuss the renovation of France’s ageing school buildings.

Meanwhile, the government is supporting legislation that would make people responsible for damaging public property pay for the cost of repairs rather than relying on public funds.

Government spokeswoman Maud Bregeon said the issue also raised questions about parental responsibility, while CGT labour union leader Sophie Binet criticised the proposal as populist and warned that it could disproportionately affect vulnerable families.

The unrest comes just months before France’s 2027 presidential election, which will determine the successor to President Emmanuel Macron.