France’s National Police Inspectorate (IGPN) has launched four investigations into allegations of police violence during demonstrations held on October 17, according to French public broadcaster Franceinfo.
The inquiries will examine incidents involving police officers during the protests, amid growing scrutiny of law enforcement tactics used against demonstrators.
The IGPN, which is responsible for investigating allegations of misconduct within France’s national police force, will assess the circumstances surrounding the reported incidents.
The latest investigations come after several weeks of student-led demonstrations, during which concerns have been raised about police interventions and injuries sustained by protesters.
On October 13, Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez disclosed that the police oversight body had already opened 36 investigations into alleged incidents since the beginning of the student mobilisation.
According to Nuñez, those inquiries included four cases involving “mutilating injuries” and six concerning “significant injuries.”
The demonstrations have also resulted in injuries among police officers and education personnel.
French authorities have defended their handling of violent incidents during the protests, maintaining that police interventions were necessary to address disturbances.
However, allegations of excessive force have prompted calls for greater accountability and closer examination of police conduct.
The four newly announced investigations will focus on incidents reported during the October 17 demonstrations.
The opening of these inquiries does not establish wrongdoing, and their findings have yet to be announced.