France considering far left as potential suspects as telecoms become latest targets in sabotage incidents | Updates on Paris Olympics 2024

Multiple telecommunication lines in France have been targeted in ongoing sabotage acts linked to the Paris Olympics, causing disruptions in the region. The French police have confirmed that fibre optic networks of several operators were affected in six areas of France. This comes in the wake of sabotage attacks on the country’s rail network, with the government eyeing far-left figures in connection with the incidents.
Telecom operators Bouygues, Free, and SFR reported interruptions in their services, with local media confirming vandalism of SFR installations. Marina Ferrari, the secretary of state for digital affairs, condemned the sabotage acts and praised the teams working to restore the damaged sites.
The vandalization of telecom networks follows arson attacks on France’s high-speed rail network, which stranded passengers and disrupted train services. Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin announced an arrest in connection with the attacks and identified far-left activists as the main suspects, cautioning against assigning blame prematurely.
In response to the train sabotage, security measures have been heightened along the train network, with drones, rail security agents, and maintenance workers deployed. Despite reports linking Russia to the attacks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the allegations as “fake news” and “unsubstantiated accusations.”
As investigations continue into the sabotage acts, the disruptions in telecom services raise concerns about the security and stability of critical infrastructure amid the Paris Olympics. It remains to be seen how authorities will address the challenges posed by these targeted attacks on essential communication and transportation systems.

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