A dozen suspects were arrested Sunday following at least 145 people reported being stabbed with syringes during a nationwide street music festival in France.
Millions participated in the Fete de la Musique on Saturday, including “unprecedented crowds” in Paris.
Ahead of the festival, feminist influencer Abrège Soeu warned that social media posts calling for needle attacks on women attendees had been circulating.
The victims reported being stabbed across the country, with 13 reports coming from Paris. At least three of those victims, including a 15-year-old girl, reported feeling unwell.
“Some victims were taken to hospital for toxicological tests,” the French interior ministry said.
Officials did not reveal whether the needles were spiked with “date-rape drugs,” such as Rohypnol or GHB, which can leave a person disoriented or unconscious and make them vulnerable to sexual assault.
Similar attacks have been reported across Europe in recent years at clubs, bars and music events, including during the 2022 Fete de la Musique.
Four of the suspects were arrested in Angouleme — in southwestern France — who are accused of targeting at least 50 people.
Two were arrested in Metz when one was caught with a syringe and a woman who reported being stabbed recognized the second man. The alleged Metz victims are believed to be under 18 years old.
Alleged victims also made reports to authorities in Evreux, Rouen and Tours.
