French police have arrested a 15-year-old boy after a shocking assault captured on video during student-led protests over a lack of education resources, authorities and local media reported.
The incident took place earlier in the week in Marseille, one of several cities hit by violent unrest linked to demonstrations that have forced hundreds of schools to close and sparked clashes involving students, teachers, police, and firefighters.
Footage circulating online shows a hooded suspect using an improvised device—described as a spray can and a lighter—to direct a burst of flame toward a woman's face. The woman, dressed in blue and carrying a shopping bag, appeared to be calling for an end to the vandalism before she was pushed toward a bus stop by a group of young people holding yellow pedestrian barriers. As she regained her balance, the suspect walked up and discharged the flame, prompting her to recoil and raise her hand to shield herself. Media reports said she suffered first-degree burns.
Broadcaster BFMTV reported that police arrested the suspect on the evening of Oct 2 and placed him in custody. Prosecutors said an investigation is under way into an intentional assault that caused the victim temporary incapacity to work. The case involves three aggravating factors: the alleged use of a weapon, wearing a mask, and participation in a group attack.
The wave of protests began in September, spreading from poorer suburbs as students complained about overcrowded classrooms, inadequate facilities, and a shortage of teachers. Education authorities said the unrest has affected nearly 2,000 middle schools. Since protests began on Sept 21, at least 65 school staff members have been injured, including 40 principals, officials said.
France's interior minister said that since Sept 28, about 5,000 people have been arrested nationwide—most of them teenagers—and that dozens have been injured in related incidents.
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