Dutch rail network crippled by suspected sabotage
Train services across much of the Netherlands were disrupted after suspected sabotage at around 30 locations caused signalling failures.
Rail travel across large parts of the Netherlands came to a halt on Tuesday, with authorities suspecting coordinated sabotage. Train services in most central and eastern regions were severely disrupted after items were found on the tracks at around 30 locations. ProRail, the rail operator, stated that deliberate placement of materials caused section malfunctions, triggering red lights that prevented trains from passing through.
Though one train did collide with a tube, there were no injuries reported. The cause and motive behind the sabotage remains unknown, as a police investigation is underway. The incident coincided with Prince's Day, during which the government outlines its budget plans. Farmers, protesting the government's plans, set hay bales alight on country roads, but no roads were closed due to their actions.
Extinction Rebellion, a climate group, threw red paint onto the route of Prince Willem-Alexander's speech, but they denied involvement in the train sabotage. ProRail condemned the disruption, deeming it dangerous and unacceptable, while expressing regret that no accidents occurred.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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