Paris Syringe Scare: Man to Face Trial After Music Festival Incidents
A 27-year-old man, known online as “Mojito” and identified as Ilan M., will appear in court on Friday, July 4, facing charges related to allegedly pricking people with syringes. The Paris Criminal Court will hear the case in immediate appearance, with prosecutors alleging “violence with weapons that did not lead to work inability.”
An investigation was launched by Paris authorities after a video circulated on social media on June 20 – the day before France’s annual Fête de la Musique – appearing to show someone using a syringe on individuals in public spaces. This initial video, featuring the persona “Mojito,” prompted widespread concern and led to multiple reports.
Following the video’s release and subsequent social media posts encouraging attacks and syringe stabbings targeting women during the music festival on June 21, authorities across France reported a surge in potential victims. A total of 145 individuals came forward claiming to have been stuck with a syringe, with 21 cases reported in the Paris region, including 13 within the city itself. Some of those affected reported feeling unwell and sought medical attention at hospitals.
The suspect, Ilan M., was arrested on Thursday, June 26. During questioning, he initially claimed the act was a “joke,” stating he had left the caps on the syringes. He also asserted he did not know the identity of the person who filmed him. A senior official stated that Ilan M. “took fifteen minutes to open to investigators” upon their arrival at his home, and that his phone contained no evidence of the videos.
However, Ilan M. also released another video on June 23, after the music festival, claiming he created it “preventively as an influencer, to alert the risks of bites during the Fête de la Musique.” This explanation has been met with skepticism by authorities.
Crucially, prosecutors have stated that, as of now, no victims of Ilan M.’s actions have been identified or interviewed. Despite the widespread reports, establishing direct links between the suspect and actual injuries has proven challenging.
The case highlights the growing concern over the spread of misinformation and dangerous trends on social media, and the challenges law enforcement faces in responding to online-fueled public safety scares. The trial on July 4 will be closely watched as authorities attempt to determine the extent of Ilan M.’s involvement and the true nature of his actions.
