French police arrest 19-year-old Afghan man on charges of multiple sexual assaults on sheep and goats.
Full and detailed news report:
MARSEILLE, France – French police have arrested a 19-year-old Afghan-origin man named Sami Achkzi on charges of repeatedly abusing and sexually assaulting domestic animals (sheep and goats) in the Les Pennes-Mirabeau area near Marseille.
According to published reports, the incidents began in early 2026. Local livestock farmers noticed suspicious injuries to sensitive areas of the animals’ bodies. Some sheep and goats had severe wounds, and in several cases their hind legs were tied with ropes or similar devices so that they could not resist. These signs made the farmers think about taking serious action.
By installing motion-detection CCTV cameras (wildlife cameras or trail cameras) in the fields and around the stables, the farmers managed to capture clear images of the suspect. The footage showed a young man repeatedly approaching the herds at night, restraining the animals and sexually assaulting them.
On the night of April 9-10, 2026, the police brigade anti-crime (BAC) arrested the young man in flagrante delicto behind one of the goats. The suspect offered little resistance at the time of arrest and later claimed to be “crazy” or out of control, but video evidence and DNA matches collected from the animals made the charges very strong.
Further details of the incident:
• At least several cases of rape of sheep and goats have been recorded, and some animals were abused multiple times.
• Farmers reported that the animals suffered severe stress, infected wounds and reduced milk production after the incidents.
• The French Animal Protection Agency (SPA) called the act “barbaric” and said it would file a private complaint against the suspect.
The 19-year-old Afghan, who is believed to have been in the area as a migrant, is now in custody and facing charges of animal cruelty (maltraitance animale). In France, the crime can carry up to three years in prison and a fine of up to €45,000. The Aix-en-Provence regional prosecutor is investigating the case and a trial is likely to begin soon.
The incident has sparked outrage among local farmers and animal rights activists, reigniting debates about migrant control and rural security.
Police are continuing their investigation to determine whether other people were involved. The farmers hope that this arrest will ensure the safety of their herds and prevent more animals from becoming victims of such inhumane acts.
This report is based on information published by French news sources and police reports.