Prosecutors in France have initiated an attempted murder investigation following the deployment of petrol bombs against security forces during protests across the nation. The probe, announced on Sunday, was prompted by reports of several officers sustaining injuries, including second-degree burns, when rioters attacked them with projectiles and incendiary devices.

The violence occurred during a third weekend of demonstrations against the rising cost of living and perceived decline in public services. While the unrest was less widespread than in previous weeks, Interior Minister Laurent Nunez described the level of violence by some individuals as "extraordinary."

Video footage circulating from the protests showed a security officer engulfed in flames after a homemade incendiary device exploded near him. The officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the flammable substance as "greasy" and felt it spreading across his skin, noting that his protective gear melted. His unit reported 13 members injured.

The investigation is specifically for "attempted murder of persons vested with public authority," the prosecutor's office stated. Investigators are actively working to identify the individuals responsible for throwing the explosive devices at approximately 15 gendarmes and police officers, though no arrests have been made in connection with the specific petrol bomb incidents.

Overall, across France, more than 770 people were arrested in connection with the protests and associated Halloween celebrations. The interior ministry reported that 159 members of law enforcement sustained injuries during these events.

The incidents highlight a growing concern over the escalation of violence against security forces during public demonstrations. The scale of these protests has been significant, drawing hundreds of thousands of participants over several weekends.

Authorities are now focused on identifying the perpetrators of the petrol bomb attacks. The investigation aims to hold those accountable for acts of violence that endangered the lives of law enforcement officers.

Further details regarding the extent of injuries and the ongoing efforts to apprehend suspects are expected to be released as the investigation progresses.