Molotov attack on police prompts Paris prosecutors to investigate attempted murder; no arrests yet
Attack at march endpoint
The attack occurred at Porte de Charenton, the endpoint of Saturday’s march. Prosecutors said explosive projectiles were aimed at about 15 gendarmes and police officers. AFP photographs and video showed a device exploding near a gendarme’s feet and igniting his protective gear. Prosecutors gave provisional reports of injuries including second-degree burns and tinnitus.
Inquiry and reported injuries
No one had been arrested in connection with the attack, and investigators were still determining how many people were hurt and how serious the injuries were. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez characterized the incident as attempted murder.
Arrests across France
The Interior Ministry counted 779 arrests across the demonstrations and Halloween night, revising an earlier provisional total of 565 reported Saturday evening. Authorities said the later hours passed without major incidents.
In Paris, prosecutors reported 105 arrests: 88 connected to protests and 17 to Halloween night. They said 89 people were still in custody, including at least 22 minors.
Turnout and recent comparisons
The Interior Ministry estimated nationwide participation at 320,000, while unions put the figure at nearly 500,000. The protests centered on high living costs and government policies. This arrest total was below the 1,314 recorded during the previous Saturday’s mobilization and the 2,628 on October 17, when widespread rioting and looting occurred. Authorities had stepped up security before Halloween after online calls for violence.
Key points
- Paris prosecutors are investigating an attack on security forces as attempted murder.
- No arrests had been made over the attack, and injury assessments remained ongoing.
- Nationwide authorities reported 779 arrests during protests and Halloween night.
- Officials estimated turnout at 320,000; unions estimated nearly 500,000.