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In a dramatic turn of events, French authorities have sought the assistance of the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to investigate the sabotage of high-speed rail lines. This incident occurred just hours before the Opening Ceremony of the Paris Olympics, causing significant disruption and raising security concerns.
The Sabotage Incident
On the eve of the Paris Olympics’ Opening Ceremony, multiple high-speed TGV lines heading into Paris were targeted with incendiary devices. The coordinated attacks caused travel chaos, affecting thousands of passengers and casting a shadow over the much-anticipated global event. French officials described the actions as “criminal” and “deliberate,” aimed at undermining the country’s infrastructure during a critical time.
Request for FBI Assistance
French police have reached out to the FBI for help in tracing the origins of an email believed to be sent by the perpetrators. The email, sent from a riseup.net address, contained a list of grievances but did not explicitly claim responsibility for the attacks. Given that riseup.net is a U.S.-based collective, French authorities hope the FBI can push the organization to identify the email account-holder.
Suspected Perpetrators
While no arrests have been made, French investigators suspect domestic far-left groups may be behind the sabotage. However, they have not ruled out the possibility of foreign involvement. The email criticized various sectors, including France’s arms, energy, and nuclear industries, and condemned the TGV network as benefiting only “a few privileged people”.
Impact on the Olympics
The sabotage incident has heightened security concerns around the Paris Olympics. Despite the disruptions, the Opening Ceremony proceeded as planned, showcasing a parade of athletes along the River Seine. However, the incident has underscored the vulnerabilities in France’s transportation infrastructure and the need for heightened vigilance during major international events.
The collaboration between French authorities and the FBI highlights the international dimension of the investigation into the high-speed rail sabotage. As the inquiry continues, the focus remains on identifying and apprehending those responsible for the attacks, ensuring the safety and security of future events in France.