Over 140 Report Syringe Attacks at France’s Fête de la Musique Amid Online Threats, Suspects Detained

More than 140 individuals attending France’s annual Fête de la Musique festival reported being pricked by syringes, prompting a nationwide investigation and the detention of 12 suspects. The incidents occurred on Saturday evening during the popular street music event, which saw “unprecedented crowds” gather across Paris and other cities.

The disturbing reports surfaced alongside revelations of online social media posts prior to the festival, specifically calling for women to be targeted with needles during the festivities.

Nationwide Scope of Attacks

The scale of the incidents was confirmed by the interior ministry, which reported a total of 145 victims nationwide. The Paris police department, while confirming instances within the capital, noted 13 cases specifically in Paris. These attacks have injected a note of alarm into what is traditionally a celebratory and free public event.

Investigations have been swiftly launched across the country. Of the 12 suspects detained in connection with these incidents, four were arrested in Angoulême, a city in southwestern France. Authorities suspect these four individuals may be responsible for targeting around 50 victims in that location alone, highlighting the potential impact of individual groups or actors.

Broader Festival Incidents and Enforcement Response

While the syringe attacks drew significant attention, the festival saw broader security challenges given the large attendance. In total, over 370 people were detained during the Fête de la Musique across France on various charges, ranging from public disorder to other criminal activities. Nearly 90 of these detentions occurred in Paris.

The event also saw a number of participants and law enforcement personnel injured. Fourteen festival participants were seriously injured during the course of the evening. Among them was a 17-year-old who was hospitalized after sustaining lower abdomen stab wounds. The police are investigating three separate stabbing incidents that occurred in Paris, one involving the 17-year-old, and another concerning a 15-year-old girl and an 18-year-old male who reported feeling unwell.

Ensuring public safety came at a cost for security forces as well, with thirteen law enforcement members reported injured while on duty during the extensive festival operations.

Official Assessment and Ongoing Concerns

Despite the widely reported syringe incidents and other violent episodes, Paris police prefect, Laurent Nunez, offered an assessment of the overall event management, stating that “no major incident has been reported.” This statement, while perhaps reflecting the authorities’ view on the handling of the massive crowds and overall security posture, contrasts sharply with the numerous specific attacks and injuries reported.

The investigations into the syringe attacks, particularly the potential motive linked to social media calls targeting women, are ongoing and underscore growing concerns about public safety at large gatherings and the influence of online incitement. Authorities are working to understand the nature of the substances injected, if any, and the motivations behind these coordinated acts of aggression that marred the festive atmosphere of the Fête de la Musique.