A nationwide music festival in France was marred by a series of syringe attacks, with 145 attendees reporting being pricked. Police are investigating the incidents, which occurred in various locations, including Paris, where at least 13 cases were confirmed. Authorities suspect the use of date-rape drugs like Rohypnol or GHB. Twelve individuals have been detained in connection with the attacks, highlighting the severity of the situation. The festival, Fête de la Musique, drew massive crowds, with Paris seeing an unprecedented turnout. Some victims were hospitalized for testing.
The Interior Ministry provided details on the arrests and ongoing investigations. Four suspects were taken into custody in Angoulême, and two men were arrested in Metz. The incidents in Metz reportedly involved alleged victims under the age of 18. The attacks have raised serious concerns about the safety of festival-goers, particularly young women, who reported being targeted in multiple cities including Tours, Évreux, and Rouen.