France’s Fête de la Musique, which draws millions onto the streets every June to celebrate music, turned dark this year. Amid the revelry and record-breaking crowds, police confirmed that 145 people reported being pricked with syringes at events across the country. Twelve suspects have been arrested in connection with these disturbing incidents, which took place in multiple cities including Paris, Angoulême, Metz, Rouen, Tours, and Évreux.
Among the most concerning reports were those from Angoulême, where four suspects allegedly targeted up to 50 victims, and Metz, where two men reportedly attacked minors. In Tours, 13 women sought emergency medical help after reporting sudden pain and marks consistent with syringe pricks. Alarmingly, a 17-year-old was also hospitalised with stab wounds, and 13 police officers were injured during the night.