A series of copper cable thefts caused significant disruption to train services in Spain, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. Authorities are investigating this major act of sabotage, as travel chaos unfolds ahead of a popular festival.
Copper Cable Thefts Disrupt High-Speed Train Services in Spain
Copper Cable Thefts Disrupt High-Speed Train Services in Spain
Over 10,000 passengers stranded as train services halted due to coordinated thefts of copper cables.
In a serious act of sabotage, thousands of travelers found themselves stranded or delayed on Sunday night after the theft of copper cables disrupted high-speed train services between Madrid and Andalusia. This incident affected more than 10,000 passengers, halting operations across key routes including Madrid, Seville, Malaga, Valencia, and Granada, just ahead of the expected influx of visitors for the famed Semana Santa celebrations.
Transport Minister Óscar Puente condemned the theft as "a serious act of sabotage" following reports that the incident occurred at five separate locations, all within close proximity. Train services faced further complications as authorities began an investigation on Monday to clarify the circumstances and pursue those responsible.
The disruption follows a previously troubling event: a week earlier, Spain and Portugal experienced a nationwide blackout, leaving many in speculation about the causes. Travelers like Kevin, a tourist from the United States, expressed outrage and confusion regarding the recent travel chaos while waiting at Madrid's Atocha station where many became trapped.
Despite the challenging situation for passengers, Puente assured that remedial measures had been taken with operations "fully restored" by Monday morning. He acknowledged the hard work and challenges facing staff throughout the chaotic night. The thefts occurred in wooded areas accessible via forest trails, highlighting the increasing problem of copper wire theft, linked to the soaring market price of copper in recent years.
Spanish authorities from the civil guard and police are collaborating with the national rail manager Adif to press forward in identifying the perpetrators of these cable thefts, amidst a backdrop of rising thefts targeting telecommunications and transport infrastructure nationwide.
