A 13-year-old girl was allegedly dragged into the toilets of a busy KFC in central Paris and gang-raped by four men. The shocking attack took place late on Monday night, 1st December, inside the Forum des Halles shopping centre, one of the capital’s busiest spots.
Four Arrested Over Horrific Attack on Teen
Police arrested four males aged 18 to 24 at the scene, suspected of raping a minor under 15. The suspects are in custody and are being questioned by the Juvenile Protection Unit, who specialise in child abuse cases.
The victim has received urgent medical and psychological care. Authorities are treating the case with the utmost seriousness due to her age and the brutality of the attack.
Teen Separated from Friends Then Targeted
The 13-year-old was out with friends in the busy Châtelet-Les Halles area when the suspects allegedly lured her away and into the KFC toilets. They separated her from her peers, taking advantage of the packed shopping centre to carry out the attack.
Forum des Halles is a central hub in Paris where thousands pass daily. The brazen nature of the assault in such a public place has raised alarm about security and surveillance.
Passerby Finds Victim and Calls Police
A passerby discovered the distressed teen and heard her tearful account of the ordeal. Thanks to their swift action in notifying police, officers arrived quickly on the scene.
The victim was able to identify her attackers, who had remained nearby. This allowed police to arrest all four men on the spot before they could escape.
Investigation Underway with Forensics and CCTV
The suspects face rape charges under French law, which considers sexual acts with anyone under 15 as rape regardless of consent. Investigators are gathering physical evidence, including DNA, witness statements, and CCTV footage from the shopping centre and KFC.
Mobile phone records are also being examined to piece together the suspects’ movements and communications.
The Juvenile Protection Unit will continue handling the case, using their specialised skills to support the young victim and secure justice.