A German military base near the western city of Cologne was temporarily closed on Wednesday as authorities investigated the possible sabotage of water supplies. The Cologne-Wahn barracks, which employs around 5,500 people, including 4,300 soldiers and 1,200 civilians, had to shut down temporarily due to security concerns.
A hole was discovered in a fence leading to waterworks at the Cologne-Wahn barracks, prompting the closure. Despite an intensive search, the perpetrators were not found, leading to the decision to reopen the barracks with precautionary measures in place, such as shutting down the drinking water system.
Military spokesman Ulrich Fonrobert emphasized the seriousness of the incident, stating that police, military police, and military counterintelligence services are actively investigating the matter to determine the culprits behind the possible sabotage.
On the same day, a NATO air base in Geilenkirchen also experienced a security scare related to suspected sabotage, although the situation was resolved without the need for a complete closure after checking the water supply.
The incidents at both military installations have raised concerns about potential sabotage activities, with some speculating about the involvement of external actors. The heightened tensions come amidst broader worries about Russia's alleged involvement in various forms of malicious activities across Europe, including sabotage, cyber interference, disinformation campaigns, and hybrid operations.
