Arsonists Disrupt High-Speed Rail Lines Ahead of Paris Olympics

Arsonists Sabotage High-Speed Rail Lines Before Paris Olympics

In a shocking turn of events just hours before the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics, arsonists targeted three crucial high-speed rail lines on Friday morning. This brazen act of sabotage not only stranded thousands of travelers but also intensified security concerns, overshadowing what President Emmanuel Macron envisioned as a moment of national pride and celebration.

At approximately 4 a.m., the perpetrators meticulously cut through and set fire to cables essential for signaling and safety near three vital rail junctions, according to French authorities. The carefully orchestrated attacks disrupted travel plans for over a million people, including Parisians eager to embark on their summer vacations and international visitors heading to the much-anticipated opening ceremony. Consequently, significant portions of France’s renowned rail system were brought to a standstill.

In addition to the successful strikes, a fourth attempt at sabotage was thwarted. Railway workers conducting maintenance in Vergigny, located southeast of Paris, encountered suspicious individuals who fled the scene before any harm was inflicted.

Fortunately, there were no fatalities or reported injuries resulting from these attacks. The Paris prosecutor’s office, which specializes in handling major organized crime cases, has launched an investigation into what it is categorizing as both criminal vandalism and a conspiracy. As of now, no group has claimed responsibility for the acts.

Prime Minister Gabriel Attal stated, “This operation was carefully planned and coordinated, with specific critical points targeted, indicating that the assailants possessed a detailed understanding of the rail network.” He reassured the public, “All of our services are obviously mobilized to ensure the Games are a resounding success.”