French authorities are probing an alleged rape of a 25-year-old Australian woman by five men in central Paris. The woman reportedly sought refuge in a kebab shop in the Pigalle area on Saturday morning, with her dress partly torn, according to local media.
While no arrests have been made, prosecutors have confirmed the investigation is being treated as a “gang rape.”
The incident occurred just days before the opening of the 2024 Olympics in Paris. Le Parisien reported that restaurant owners called for assistance upon seeing the woman’s condition.
Firefighters attended to her immediately after the alleged assault, and she was subsequently taken to Bichat hospital for a medical examination.
The Paris Prosecutor’s Office has stated that police are examining CCTV footage as part of their investigation into the allegations.
“The investigation into the charge of gang rape likely to have been committed on the night of 19 to 20 July has been entrusted to the second judicial police district,” it said.
In preparation for the upcoming Olympics, Paris is seeing a significant police presence to ensure safety. Officers have been patrolling the city in large numbers since last week, with armed guards stationed around the River Seine.
Several security zones have been established, dividing Paris into different areas.
To enter specific zones, such as the one around the Eiffel Tower, individuals must apply for a special games pass through a platform managed by the police. The Olympics begin on Friday, prompting these heightened security measures.