Lens, France – A teenager suffered a severe injury on Monday when a police dispersal grenade he picked up detonated during a confrontation between high‑school protesters and law‑enforcement officers. The 15‑year‑old lost his hand and part of his lower arm, according to local officials cited by Reuters.

Protest context

The incident occurred amid a wave of student demonstrations that began in Paris and have now spread to towns across the country. Students are demanding better funding for schools, relief from overcrowded classrooms and repairs to aging facilities. The protests entered their third week as the government prepares for a national rally organized by the pupils’ union against what they describe as chronic under‑investment.

Police response and casualties

François‑Xavier Lauch, prefect of the Pas‑de‑Calais department, reported that roughly 200 to 250 demonstrators were hurling objects at police when the grenade exploded. He said the police were using standard crowd‑control devices to disperse the crowds.

Since the protests began, French authorities have arrested more than 5,000 participants, with 87% of those arrested being minors. About 1,800 individuals now face prosecution, including 1,483 minors, according to the Justice Ministry. Specific charges have not been disclosed.

Government reaction

Education Minister Édouard Philippe (note: correct name as of source) acknowledged that the unrest has been “declining in recent days” and announced plans to launch an online platform for students to voice their concerns directly to the ministry. The minister emphasized that the government remains committed to improving school conditions while maintaining public order.

Public sentiment

Students continue to express frustration. “We’ll keep blocking until the government hears us,” said 18‑year‑old Sami Karen, speaking outside Charles de Foucauld high school in Paris. “As long as they don’t listen to us, we won’t stop this fight.”

Analysts note that the protests come months before the upcoming French presidential election, adding political pressure on the outgoing administration of President Emmanuel Macron.

Looking ahead

Authorities say they will continue to monitor the situation closely and have warned that any escalation could lead to further arrests and legal action. Meanwhile, student groups are urging parents and community leaders to support their call for increased educational funding and safer school environments.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.