Public anger is growing after authorities failed to question a suspect previously accused of child sexual abuse.
France is facing mounting public outrage following the murder of 11-year-old Lyhanna, whose alleged killer had reportedly been the subject of multiple sexual abuse complaints that were never fully investigated.
More than 60,000 people joined protests across France on Monday, with many calling for the resignation of Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin. Protesters argue that authorities failed to act on earlier allegations against 41-year-old Jérôme Barella, who is now the main suspect in Lyhanna’s death.
Police records show Barella was reported last August after a 10-year-old girl allegedly accused him of sexual abuse. Medical evidence reportedly supported the claims, but investigators never questioned him during the following nine months. Barella denies involvement in Lyhanna’s death but admits driving her to a local swimming pool before her disappearance.
Lyhanna’s body was discovered last week near the town of Fleurance in southwestern France, days after she went missing. The case has intensified scrutiny of France’s justice system and its handling of child abuse complaints.
The French government has acknowledged serious failures in the case. Darmanin has ordered a review of around 70,000 unresolved child sexual abuse complaints. The Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has pledged tougher laws for repeat child sex offenders.
As investigations continue, the case has become a national flashpoint over child protection and accountability within France’s justice system.
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