Needle spiking at French festivals: what to watch out for and what to do if targeted
Social media is being used to broadcast assault campaigns concerning unauthorised injections
145 people reported they had been spiked by a needle at France’s Fête de la Musique (June 21)
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Needle spiking (piqûre sauvage or piqûre à l’insu) is the term used to refer to unauthorised injections administered to members of the public, often a precursor to sexual assault.
The phenomenon has gradually increased in France since 2021, with incidents most commonly reported at large gatherings such as festivals, concerts and nightclubs.
In the days leading up to France’s Fête de la Musique (June 21), certain social media users on platforms such as TikTok encouraged the administration of unauthorised injections, with women being the main targets.
A total of 145 people made official needle spiking reports following the nationwide music festival, a spokesperson for the French Interior Ministry told The Connexion. The ministry does not have figures to say how many cases have been confirmed since then.
As the summer season of festivals and gatherings picks up, The Connexion looks at what to do if you suspect that you have been a victim of needle spiking.
What to do if spiked by a needle
France’s official drug information service, Drogues Info has listed the steps to follow if you think you have been targeted by an unauthorised injection.
The service reminds victims to “react as quickly as possible,” “report the incident,” and “protect your health.”
Victims should seek a forensic pathologist's medical examination within 48 hours, with “prélèvements” (swab samples or blood tests) taken to identify any substances injected.
Treatment and assessments can be carried out at a hospital A&E emergency unit or a Centre gratuit d’information, de dépistage et de diagnostic (CeGIDD). These free centres offering information, screening and diagnosis can be located here.
Drogues Info states that preventive anti-infection treatments will be administered, if necessary, citing the risk of HIV and hepatitis B, and that “examination and analysis costs are free of charge.”
Note that France’s Aids information service, Sida Info, states that “the transmission of HIV through a superficial injection is non-existent. Even if a needle prick causes a slight hematoma, this does not mean exposure to the virus has occurred.”
The service also highlights that “if you have a memory lapse, unusual symptoms or think you have been drugged without your knowledge then you can call (0 800 840 800) the Centre de ressources sur les agressions sexuelles et la soumission chimique (CRAFS). They will help you assess the situation and determine what steps to take.”
For further information, victims can contact their local poison control centre or call the free and anonymous Drogues Info service helpline (0 800 23 13 13) from 8:00 - 2:00 daily.
The incident should also be reported to the police to allow the relevant services to gather evidence and carry out an investigation.
Read also: Drug use in France surges to record high
