France experienced a series of deliberate acts targeting its high-speed train lines on Friday, just hours before the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics. The French state railway company, SNCF, reported that several trains were diverted or canceled due to the incident, urging travelers to postpone their trips. The Atlantic, Northern, and Eastern high-speed lines were affected, with damage reported to SNCF facilities. While one act was foiled by SNCF agents in the east, the culprits behind these acts remain unknown.
French intelligence services are fully mobilized to identify those responsible for the attacks. While such methods have been used by the far-left in the past, there is no evidence connecting these actions to any specific group at this time. The Paris prosecutor’s office has launched an investigation into the attack, outlining four separate charges related to property damage and participation in organized crime. Punishments for these crimes can include up to 20 years’ imprisonment and a fine of €300,000 ($325,000).
The disruptions caused extensive travel chaos, impacting an estimated 250,000 travelers on the day of the attacks and potentially affecting 800,000 passengers throughout the weekend. Repair work is currently underway, but SNCF warns that disruptions will continue until at least Monday. Passengers at train stations expressed frustration and disappointment, with many forced to alter their plans or find alternative means of transportation.
The incidents have also affected international travel, with Eurostar canceling a quarter of its trains over the weekend due to the coordinated acts of sabotage on French lines. The company is advising customers to postpone their trips if possible. However, despite these disruptions, the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics will proceed as planned. The French authorities and security protocols in place have received full confidence from the International Olympic Committee President, Thomas Bach.
French officials, including the Minister of Sports and the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Amélie Oudéa-Castera, have condemned the attacks as a coordinated sabotage. The disruption to the train lines is seen as an intentional act to disrupt the Olympic preparations. Paris police chief Laurent Nunez has announced increased security measures at train stations in response to the attacks.
The cause of these deliberate acts remains unclear, but there has been growing domestic unrest in France, particularly following recent national elections. Interior Minister Darmanin confirmed the detention of a “member of the extreme-right” who was suspected of planning violent actions during the Olympic Games. This incident highlights the heightened security concerns surrounding the event.
In anticipation of potential disruptions, France had already bolstered security for the Olympics. Around 35,000 police officers are deployed daily during the Games, with a peak of 45,000 officers for the opening ceremony. Additionally, 10,000 soldiers are stationed in the Paris region, supported by 1,800 police officers from around the world.
The attacks on France’s high-speed train lines not only caused significant disruptions to travel but also raised concerns about security during the Paris Olympics. The deliberate nature of the acts and their coordination suggest a level of planning and knowledge of the train network. As investigations continue, authorities are working to ensure the safety of athletes, travelers, and spectators attending the Olympic events. Despite the challenges posed by these acts of sabotage, the opening ceremony will proceed as planned, demonstrating the resilience and determination of the organizers and participants.
