French police arrested 13 suspects after people across the country reported being pricked with syringes during the popular Fête de la Musique. The festival, held on Saturday night, drew massive crowds in Paris and other cities and the syringe attack created panic
The Interior Ministry confirmed that 145 people complained of syringe attacks. Victims came from multiple locations, including Paris, Angoulême, Metz, Évreux, Rouen, and Tours.
In Paris, police confirmed 13 syringe cases, including one involving a 15-year-old girl and another an 18-year-old boy. Both said they felt unwell afterward. Some victims were taken to hospital for toxicology tests.
In Angoulême, police arrested four people suspected of targeting around 50 victims. In Metz, two men were held. One carried a syringe, and a woman identified the second man as the attacker.
Officials believe some of the victims were under 18. One of the suspects was already known to police for violence.
Reports say many of the victims were young women. In Tours, 13 women approached emergency responders after feeling pricked. In Évreux, one woman was admitted to hospital with pain in her left arm where she was pricked.
A feminist activist had earlier warned online that attackers might use syringes during the festival, though it remains unclear who posted such threats.
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This is not the first time such incidents happened. In 2022, France saw a wave of needle spiking cases in bars, clubs, and music events. The government then advised people to visit the police and get medical tests immediately if pricked.
This year’s festival saw 370 arrests for various offences. 14 people suffered serious injuries. A 17-year-old was hospitalised with stab wounds. 13 police officers also sustained injuries during the event.
Authorities are now on high alert as France’s summer music season continues.
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