The French government has suspended the use of stun grenades by police during high-school demonstrations. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced the temporary halt to the weapon's use just long enough to understand what happened following mounting accusations of police brutality during a fortnight of protests.
The decision follows a clash with riot police in Lens, northern France, on Monday, where a 15-year-old boy had his hand blown off up to the elbow. This incident has intensified anger as protests have been marred by violent clashes that have injured hundreds.
The student movement, which began in mid-September, is driven by complaints regarding teacher shortages and dilapidated facilities in high schools. Thousands have rallied to demand more funding for education and to protest inequality in the education system.
Since the start of the movement, more than 6,500 people, mostly minors, have been arrested. Eighteen internal probes have been launched into allegations of police brutality. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu is scheduled to make a public address to the protesters.