Sabotage an Umspannwerk: Bergheim: Ermittler finden sechs Abschussvorrichtungen

Following a power outage at an Umspannwerk in Bergheim near Cologne, investigators have discovered six triggering devices in a field. It is believed that these devices were constructed to guide pyrotechnic objects into the air above the power lines, explained Chief Criminal Prosecutor Michael Esser. According to investigating State Attorney Ulrich Bremer, the pyrotechnic devices found in a maize field represent "a very strong indication of a premeditated crime."

Consequently, several power plant blocks have been shut down, posing a threat to the vital supply of the population. The investigation is being conducted due to the initial suspicion of subversive sabotage and the disruption of public facilities, Bremer stated. Investigators are looking for parallels to the recent case in Brandenburg, and they are actively investigating all leads.

Under investigation is a connection to the recent sabotage incident in Brandenburg, where unknown individuals attempted to trigger short circuits on high-voltage lines near the Jänschwalde coal-fired power plant on Tuesday, successfully achieving it in two cases, according to authorities. Both cases reportedly share comparable clues, with pyrotechnic objects being found in both instances, explained Esser.

As pyrotechnic objects could have been placed in the fields unnoticed for a longer period, investigators are now hoping for leads from the public. Regarding the evaluation of the triggering devices, they will also be assessed for DNA traces. At this stage, there are no concrete perpetrator leads, stated Esser.