Coordinated Vandalism Disrupts France's Rail Network Before Paris Olympics

A coordinated series of vandalism acts significantly disrupted France's high-speed rail network ahead of the Paris Olympics opening ceremony. Arsonists targeted installations on major lines, prompting severe travel disruptions. The state-owned railway operator, SNCF, is working on repairs while the French authorities are implementing mass security measures.

A series of coordinated vandalism acts targeted France's high-speed train network, causing significant disruption to key rail lines just ahead of the Paris Olympics opening ceremony on Friday. The state-owned railway operator, SNCF, reported arsonists attacked installations connecting Paris with cities like Lille, Bordeaux, and Strasbourg.

SNCF advised all travellers to postpone their journeys as repairs are underway. Severe disruptions are expected to persist until the weekend. Trains have been sent back to their original departure points. 'Last night, the SNCF was victim of several acts of vandalism on the Atlantic, Northern, and Eastern high-speed lines. Fires were deliberately set to damage our installations,' said the SNCF in a statement.

The extensive damage raised concerns ahead of the Paris Olympics, where France is deploying an unprecedented peacetime security operation. More than 45,000 police, 10,000 soldiers, and 2,000 private security agents are on duty. Snipers will be positioned on rooftops, and drones will monitor from above.

Paris 2024 organizers are closely monitoring the situation with SNCF. No group has claimed responsibility for the vandalism, and there's no immediate indication of a political motive.

Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete labeled the acts as criminal. The Paris police chief has increased security at major stations. Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera condemned the vandalism, stating, 'It's completely appalling. To target the games is to target France.' Travellers like Corinne Lecocq, affected by cancellations, expressed a mix of irritation and resignation.