Yardland organizers denounce police violence against two female attendees

Paris – 09.07.2026: On the sidelines of the Yardland music festival in Vincennes, the organizers accuse the police of using disproportionate force against two female attendees. In an Instagram statement, the team reports that the women were pushed and injured during an entrance check, despite posing no threat. They are demanding clarification and an independent investigation into procedures at the entrance to the Hippodrome Paris-Vincennes. The organizers also announced that they would offer legal and psychological support to those affected.

The accounts spread quickly on social media and sparked debates about the festival’s security concept. According to consistent media reports, an increased deployment of riot police was observed at the entrance after additional checks were ordered. Details regarding the reason, timing, and specific measures vary across the accounts. The only thing clear so far is that a confrontation occurred at the entrance; it was not immediately known whether active body cameras or video recordings were available.

Authorities remain cautious for now. According to French media, the Paris Police Prefecture stated that the circumstances are being examined. According to those reports, the IGPN, the police’s internal investigative body, was informed. As of Thursday, there was no specific information about the units involved, disciplinary measures, or a medically confirmed account of the women’s injuries. It was also unclear whether criminal complaints had already been filed.

Yardland had announced expanded measures in advance to protect attendees. These include visible awareness teams, a support point for those affected, and partnerships with support initiatives against sexual harassment and violence. Such structures have become widespread at major summer festivals in France since 2025 in order to receive reports quickly and support those affected. The organizers stated that they are in contact with witnesses and are gathering material to document the events.

From a legal perspective, the next steps depend on the ongoing investigations. If complaints are filed, the public prosecutor’s office and the IGPN would decide on the next steps. Observers urge caution: only the assessment of testimonies, videos, and operational reports can clarify whether service regulations were violated. The authorities stated that they would report the results after the initial inspections have been completed.