During this year’s Fête de la Musique in France as many as 145 people reported being jabbed with syringes in crowds. Police detained over a dozen people, and the case is stirring strong emotions and raising questions about safety at mass events.
What happened during the Fête de la Musique?
The Fête de la Musique is an annual event that draws millions of people onto the streets of French cities. This year, the festive atmosphere was disrupted by a series of syringe attacks. Reports came in from across the country, with the most cases recorded in Paris, Metz and Angoulême.
Course of the incidents
- 145 people reported being pricked with a needle or syringe.
- Most victims were women and teenage girls, although men also reported being attacked.
- Some of the victims were taken to hospital for toxicological tests.
- Police arrested 12–14 suspects aged 19–44.
- In Paris alone, at least 13 cases were recorded, and around 15 in Metz.
Motives and responses from the authorities
According to France’s Ministry of the Interior, the attacks may have been inspired by social media posts that explicitly called for jabbing women during the festival. Police and prosecutors are investigating, and the case is being treated very seriously.
Were dangerous substances injected?
This question worries victims and the public the most. At this point, no evidence has been confirmed that the syringes contained narcotic substances such as GHB or Rohypnol, so-called “date rape drugs”. Toxicological tests are ongoing, and preliminary results have not shown a threat to life for any of the people involved. Some victims reported feeling unwell, which only added to the anxiety. However, as a precaution, all victims are advised to be tested for viruses (HIV, hepatitis B and C) and to monitor their health for several weeks. Experts stress that the risk of infection in such situations is low, but it cannot be completely ruled out.
Information from France 24:
French police have detained 12 suspects after 145 people reported being jabbed with syringes during the annual #FeteDeLaMusique. Social media posts called for attacks on women during the celebrations.
Scale of the phenomenon – is it a new problem?
Although this year’s incidents caused enormous public concern, similar cases were reported earlier – not only in France, but also in the United Kingdom, Spain and Belgium. In 2022, the media reported a wave of so-called “needle spiking”, i.e. attacks involving pricking people with a needle in crowds, often without a clear motive. Media reports suggest the motive may be to cause fear or panic.
Arrests and investigation
- More than a dozen people suspected of involvement in the attacks have been detained. They include both young men and women.
- Police are examining whether the perpetrators acted individually or whether it was an organised action inspired by social media.
How to protect yourself from a syringe attack?
Here are some practical tips for attendees of mass events:
- Stay alert in crowds, especially near strangers.
- Avoid being alone in crowded places.
- If you feel a prick or suddenly feel unwell, immediately report to security or medical staff.
- Keep friends informed of your whereabouts and respond to warning signs.
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