Officer in France set alight after protester throws Molotov cocktail
French National Gendarmerie condemns "unacceptable violence"; Jordan Bardella demands long sentences
An officer from the French National Gendarmerie was set on fire after a protester threw a Molotov cocktail at him, authorities and footage shared on social media show.
Video shows the moment the officer's leg ignited
The Gendarmerie published a photo and a short video on X that appear to capture the instant a flame reached the officer's leg. The force described the act as "unacceptable violence."
The officer suffered severe burns to his leg and was treated by emergency services. French authorities said an investigation into the attack is under way and that those responsible will face prosecution.
Jordan Bardella, president of the far‑right party National Rally, called the incendiary device a weapon "designed to kill" and demanded that perpetrators receive long prison sentences.
The incident took place amid several days of nationwide protests sparked by rising living costs and grievances about the condition of the education system.
Photo: press material from the event
