France launches attempted murder investigation after petrol bomb thrown at police

Key Points:

• French prosecutors have opened an attempted murder investigation after petrol bombs were thrown at police during protests, with one officer suffering burns to his ankle and minor hand injuries.
• The injured officer described the incendiary device as "particularly sophisticated," and Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez labeled the attack a "murder attempt," with efforts underway to identify the perpetrators.
• Hundreds of thousands protested across France demanding action on the cost of living and public services, amid a heavy police presence and over 770 arrests on Saturday, though no arrests have been made related to the petrol bomb attack.
• The officer stated that the attackers were hostile and well-equipped individuals aiming to harm state representatives, and 14 other officers were also injured during clashes involving paving stones and other violence.
• The protests have seen serious injuries to demonstrators, with concerns over police use of stun grenades; France suspended one type after a severe injury but reportedly continued using another model in subsequent protests.