France's first woman has condemned the "cowardice" and "stupidity" of a bodily assault on her great-nephew which befell on the sidelines of a protest in opposition to pension reforms.

Police stated eight individuals have been arrested within the northern French metropolis of Amiens in reference to the assault on Monday.

Jean-Baptiste Trogneux, 30, who runs a household chocolate store, was reportedly heading to his house above his retailer when he was focused.

His father, Jean-Alexandre Trogneux, stated the assailants insulted "the president, his wife and our family" earlier than making an escape.

In a uncommon assertion, Brigitte Macron known as out the assault's "cowardice, stupidity and violence".

"I am in full solidarity with my family and have been in touch constantly since 11pm yesterday," she stated.

"I have on several occasions denounced this kind of violence that can only lead to the worst."

Read extra:French courtroom approves plans to boost pension ageOne of Macron's favorite eating places set on hearthProtester in crucial situation and 16 officers injured in clashes

Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron known as the violence "unacceptable" whereas giving a speech in Iceland.

The president stated on Monday night on the French TV community TF1 that he would proceed with unpopular pension reforms that will elevate the retirement age from 62 to 64.

The reforms have been authorized by France's highest constitutional courtroom in April.

The plans sparked widespread protests after Mr Macron's authorities invoked Article 49.3 to push the modifications by means of with out a vote by MPs.

Protesters clashed with police shortly after the courtroom's determination was introduced, with teargas used on a bunch of demonstrators in Lyon, whereas bikes have been additionally set on hearth within the French capital, Paris.

Content Source: information.sky.com