France, June 26 -- Jerome Barella, the main suspect in the killing of 11-year-old Lyhanna at the start of June, had previously been accused of raping other children, but was not questioned by police over these allegations prior to Lyhanna's death.

Child protection advocates have organised what have become weekly demonstrations outside the Justice Ministry, calling for the enacting of a comprehensive new law on gender-based violence. The bill, of 78 measures, was first introduced at the end of 2025 but is yet to be debated.

France questions judicial system after girl's suspected murder Spotlight on France, episode 147

"This is the first time there have been so many people in the street about this, who are shouting that they are fed up. ...