France’s High-Speed Rail Network Hit by Coordinated Arson Attacks Before Paris Olympics

France’s high-speed rail network has been disrupted by coordinated “malicious acts,” including arson attacks, hours before the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics.

Arson Targets Key Installations

The state-owned railway operator, SNCF, reported that arsonists targeted installations along the lines connecting Paris with the west, north, and east of the country. These attacks have caused severe disruptions across the TGV network, with many routes canceled and repairs expected to last throughout the weekend. The SNCF confirmed that crucial cables were cut and burned, labeling the incident as a “massive attack on a large scale.”

Disrupted Travel Plans for Hundreds of Thousands

The attacks have affected the travel plans of approximately 800,000 French holidaymakers. Jean-Pierre Farandou, the head of SNCF, expressed his sorrow, noting that families were the worst affected by what he described as the actions of “irresponsible cranks.” The attacks appeared to be well-planned and strategically targeted at crucial points on the rail network.

Government Condemnation

Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castéra condemned the vandalism, calling it “completely appalling” and asserting that targeting the games equates to targeting France. Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete described the events as “coordinated malicious acts” and “criminal actions” that have compromised many French people’s holiday plans.

Impact on Olympic Fixtures

Several Olympic fixtures, including football matches, are scheduled to take place outside Paris, in locations such as Nantes and Bordeaux, which are connected to Paris by major rail lines. As a result, crowds of passengers were stranded at stations, including the Gare Montparnasse in Paris, due to train cancellations.

Increased Security Measures

Laurent Nuñez, in charge of Paris policing, stated that more police were being diverted to stations in Paris to manage the large numbers of stranded passengers. So far, there has been no immediate claim of responsibility for the arson attacks.