Who is Soraya Riffy? French influencer sexually assaulted, ‘disfigured' in violent home invasion shares heartbreaking message

Time of India

08-07-2025

Soraya Riffy, a 30-year-old French beauty and fashion influencer, has spoken out after enduring a horrifying attack in her Marseille home on July 5. According to statements made to French media, a man posed as a neighbour who had lost his keys to gain entry into her home. Once inside, he was joined by two other armed men who tied her up, physically assaulted her, and sprayed her with bleach. She also alleges that she was sexually assaulted during the ordeal.
In the days following the assault, Soraya spoke to Le Parisien, revealing, 'I'm disfigured, disgusted, and frightened. Too much media exposure leads to danger." She also went on to say that she plans to leave Marseille for good and take a step back from social media while she recovers.
Her lawyer, Tom Michel, said in a public statement that Soraya suffered a concussion, a completely broken nose, and multiple facial fractures. The attackers also allegedly taped her mouth, causing her to nearly suffocate. She was left covered in cuts and bruises and described as being psychologically destroyed by the experience. Michel also revealed that Soraya had received threatening messages from the attackers two weeks before the incident and had reported these threats to police.
Soraya shares a heartbreaking message on Instagram
Soraya Riffy also opened up about her ordeal in an emotional message to her fans on Instagram. The beauty influencer shared the details of the traumatic experience while expressing her desire for justice. She said, 'I'm so disgusted. What I went through today is horrible.'
According to French media, the 30-year-old was interviewed by police while being treated at the hospital. Authorities have since launched an investigation into multiple charges, including armed robbery, kidnapping, death threats, and gang-related violence.
Internet expresses concern over women's safety in Europe
Since she opened up about the horrific incident, Riffy has received an outpouring of support from her followers. But personal messages of encouragement aside, the attack has sparked emotional and at times politically charged conversations online.
Some users pointed to this incident as part of a larger decline in safety across parts of Europe, with comments like, 'Is Europe becoming the Third World? No. It already has.'
French Influencer Soraya Riffy is attacked in her home.Is Europe turning into the third world? pic.twitter.com/2EzWDD5x2w
Others questioned the leadership and security situation, writing, 'European leaders should hang their heads in shame for how badly they have failed to protect their women.' "Sadly it is, and nobody is doing anything about it. Leadership hides in gated communities, and for them there is nothing wrong with the way life is," one wrote.
Sadly it is, and nobody is doing anything about out. Leadership hides in gated communities and for them there is nothing wrong with the way life is.
Who is Soraya Riffy?
Soraya Riffy first gained public attention in France after appearing on a national talk show in 2016. Over the years, she built a strong online presence with a mix of beauty tutorials, fitness tips, and fashion advice.
With her signature polished style and eye-catching looks, she quickly became known for her glamorous lifestyle, drawing over one million followers on Instagram.
Whether attending the Cannes Film Festival or stepping onto red carpets, Soraya was recognised for her striking outfits and confident presence. But the recent attack has brought everything to a halt, marking a heartbreaking shift in both her personal life and potentially her career.
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