Mass Syringe Attacks Mar French Music Festival, 14 Suspects Arrested

A disturbing wave of alleged syringe attacks has cast a shadow over France’s annual Festival of Music, held across various cities and towns this past weekend. Authorities have confirmed that over 140 individuals reported being “pricked” by syringes during the festivities on June 21st, leading to the swift arrest of 14 suspects in connection with the widespread incidents.

Victims, many of whom were unable to identify their assailants, reported feeling a sudden prick in their arms or backs. This was often followed by alarming symptoms including dizziness, loss of consciousness, and hot flashes. Immediate medical attention was provided at festival sites and local hospitals, where crucial saliva, blood, and urine samples were collected for analysis. While investigations are ongoing, no confirmed traces of substances have yet been found in any of the samples.

The alleged attacks were reported in multiple locations where the “Fête de la Musique” took place, including major cities like Paris and Metz, as well as the Normandy region. While another major event, the Hellfest rock and metal festival, also occurred in Clisson over the weekend, reports did not specify if any incidents were linked to that particular venue.

These incidents follow a recent public warning issued by French influencer Abrège Soeur on TikTok. Prior to the festival, she alerted her followers to social media posts allegedly outlining plans to target women with syringes on June 21st. Soeur even proposed a code word – mentioning the fashion brand H&M – for individuals to use if they felt endangered or noticed someone in distress, aiming to facilitate discreet requests for help.

This unsettling trend is not entirely new to France. The Guardian previously noted a series of similar syringe attacks in public establishments back in 2022, which prompted the French government to issue a public warning for heightened vigilance, particularly at night. Some of those earlier complaints also originated from attendees of the Fête de la Musique that year. The current arrests underscore the authorities’ commitment to addressing these serious public safety concerns.

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