French authorities have made significant progress in their investigation of the recent sabotage attacks on the country’s rail and fiber optic networks, with Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin stating that the attacks bear hallmarks of far-left extremism. The minister revealed that several suspects have been identified, and at least one militant from the ultragauche movement was arrested on Sunday, July 28, with evidence of sabotage materials found in his vehicle.The rail network has returned to normal operation as of Monday, July 29, with Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete confirming that all high-speed trains, including those on the Est, Atlantique, and Nord lines, are now running without disruptions. The SNCF, France’s national railway company, has completed repair works and promised to reimburse affected passengers.However, new concerns have arisen as French police reported fresh sabotage attacks on fiber optic networks in several parts of the country, affecting telecommunication companies SFR and Bouygues. These incidents, which occurred in at least six departments, did not affect internet connectivity in Paris, where the Olympic Games are currently taking place.The sabotage attacks have raised significant security concerns as France hosts the Olympic Games. The initial rail network attack, which occurred on July 26, just before the opening ceremony, affected an estimated 800,000 travelers and is expected to cost the SNCF millions of euros in damages and lost revenue.While the investigation is ongoing, authorities are cautioning against jumping to conclusions about the motivations of the perpetrators. A claim of responsibility criticizing the Olympic Games was sent to several media outlets, but its authenticity remains unverified. The French government has strengthened security measures, including the deployment of additional personnel and surveillance equipment to protect critical infrastructure.
Key points
- French authorities have arrested a suspect from the ultragauche movement in connection with the rail network sabotage.
- The French rail network has returned to normal operation, but new sabotage attacks on fiber optic networks have been reported.
- The incidents have raised security concerns as France hosts the Olympic Games, with authorities strengthening protective measures.
Contradictions👾While most sources report that the rail network has returned to normal, there are varying accounts of the extent of the new fiber optic attacks and their impact on telecommunications.
