Olympics Begin... Public Safety Alert After Group Sexual Assault by Foreigners in Paris

Police Investigation Launched but Suspect Not Identified

Three days before the opening of the 2024 Paris Olympics, a gang rape incident involving foreigners occurred in downtown Paris, France.

The Olympic rings installed on the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, on the 8th.
[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

On the 23rd (local time), Yonhap News quoted the British BBC broadcast, reporting that "a report was received that an Australian woman was gang-raped by five people in downtown Paris, and local police are investigating." The victim is a 25-year-old woman who, on the morning of the 20th, reportedly sought help from the owner of a kebab shop in Pigalle, downtown Paris, with her clothes partially torn. It is also known that her mobile phone was stolen at the time. The woman was staying in Paris to attend the music festival 'F?te de la Musique Festival' when the incident occurred.

Local police stated that they are investigating the case as a gang rape incident. It is estimated that the incident occurred during the night between the 19th and 20th, and investigations are underway through CCTV footage and other means. However, since the victim does not remember detailed information such as the location of the crime, suspects have not yet been identified.

The incident, which was feared just before the Olympics opening, has reignited concerns about public safety. In particular, in June, Paris residents called for a boycott of the Olympics, claiming that Paris would be dangerous and a "hell on Earth" during the Games. Local residents cited the possibility of terrorist attacks, various crimes targeting tourists such as scams and pickpocketing, and soaring prices as reasons for the boycott. According to a survey released by the French daily Le Figaro on the 16th, 68% of French people expressed concerns about safety in tourist areas and public transportation. Among crime types, damage caused by pickpocketing (92%) and snatching (88%) were identified as the greatest risks. Additionally, 60% of respondents expressed concerns about luggage theft at hotels and exposure to sexual crimes.

In preparation for the opening ceremony, Paris has deployed 45,000 police officers and 18,000 soldiers from the Sentinelle security forces to maintain strict security. Several security zones have also been established around the city. Furthermore, for certain areas including the Eiffel Tower, those wishing to enter are required to apply for an entry permit through a police-operated platform.