Budapest police have launched an investigation into multiple reports of suspected drink spiking at a DJ Oti concert during the Sziget Festival, the Budapest Police Headquarters (BRFK) confirmed on Monday.
The probe follows social media posts by two women who claimed they fell violently ill after consuming alcohol at the event, held on the Hajógyári Island. Both stated they believed their drinks had been tampered with, as their symptoms were severe and unprecedented despite modest alcohol consumption. One woman’s brother posted that medical staff treated her for “alcohol abuse,” and that emergency responders handled the situation poorly. The Hungarian National Ambulance Service (OMSZ) responded in a statement, saying it takes allegations about medical care and communication seriously and will review its own procedures.
The Sziget Festival organizers said they were “deeply outraged” by the reports and urged anyone affected to file a police complaint. They emphasized that their food and beverage vendors are long-standing, trusted partners and that safe service is a fundamental requirement. BRFK stated the investigation aims to “fully clarify the events,” with witness interviews already underway. Later on Monday, the Telex news site reported that the inquiry was opened on suspicion of drug possession.
DJ Oti, the stage name of Hungarian radio host Sebestyén Balázs, addressed the allegations on his morning show, calling the situation “very sad” but noting that such incidents can occur at any large event. He advised potential victims to report to authorities. The concert reportedly drew 65,000 attendees to the island.
Follow us for live European news
3 further sources not geolocated