A troubling incident unfolded in France as 145 attendees were reportedly pricked with syringes during a nationwide music festival. The attacks were confirmed by Paris police, who noted at least 13 cases in the capital. The interior ministry has stated that 12 individuals have been apprehended in connection with these incidents. Authorities are investigating whether these 'needle spiking' cases are linked to date-rape drugs like Rohypnol or GHB, substances known to incapacitate victims. The Fête de la Musique saw millions celebrating across the country, with Paris experiencing an unprecedented influx of revelers, as noted by the police chief.

The Interior Ministry confirmed that some victims required hospitalization for toxicological evaluations. Among the 12 arrests made nationwide, four suspects were detained in Angoulême, believed to have targeted approximately 50 individuals. In Metz, two men were arrested on suspicion of similar attacks, with one found with a syringe. Reports indicate that the alleged victims were mostly minors, and one suspect had a history of violent behavior. Victims have reported being pricked in the legs or buttocks, with several young women in Normandy also coming forward with similar complaints.

France has previously dealt with syringe attack concerns, particularly in nightlife settings such as clubs and music events. As the summer music festival season approaches, the government is urging vigilance among attendees. Last year, numerous reports of syringe attacks prompted officials to advise individuals to report any incidents to the police and seek toxicology tests if they suspected foul play. A police memo from 2022 indicated that syringe marks were typically found on the arms or back, and many victims were unaware of their attackers. During the recent festival, over 370 arrests were made for various offenses, with 14 individuals sustaining serious injuries, including a 17-year-old who was hospitalized with stab wounds.