French Police Detain Suspects Following Syringe Attacks During Fête de la Musique
During this year’s annual Fête de la Musique festival, French police reported the detention of 12 suspects following numerous incidents of people being pricked with syringes at events across the country. Authorities noted that the event, which took place nationwide, attracted “unprecedented crowds” in Paris.
According to the Interior Ministry, 145 individuals in total reported being jabbed with needles during the outdoor music events, with 13 cases specifically in Paris. Officials are still investigating whether the syringes contained drugs commonly used in so-called needle spiking, such as Rohypnol or GHB, which are known to incapacitate victims, making them vulnerable to sexual assault.
Some victims experienced unease and were taken to hospitals for toxicological tests. In Paris, separate investigations were opened after three people, including a 15-year-old girl and an 18-year-old man, reported being jabbed in different incidents. Each of them reported feeling unwell.
In Angoulême, there is suspicion that four individuals targeted approximately 50 victims.
Before the festival, French influencer Abrège Soeur had warned women about potential syringe attacks on social media. The origin of this information was not revealed.
Police also detained over 370 people throughout the festival for various reasons. Similar incidents occurred in June 2022, when suspects were detained for needle pricking in nightclubs and at concerts.
Edited by: Roshni Majumdar
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/france-145-festivalgoers-jabbed-with-syringes/a-73012961?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf
