In brief
German police have detained a 48‑year‑old man suspected of orchestrating a wave of sabotage raids on the country’s power infrastructure. The suspect was found near the Weisweiler plant carrying explosives, with a nearby tent rigged with additional devices. Letters claiming responsibility were uncovered, pointing to attacks in three German states and linking the suspect to a residence in Gevelsberg. The incidents have forced temporary shutdowns of power‑generating units, and officials warn of possible black‑outs if the attacks continue.
German Police Arrest Suspected Power‑Grid Saboteur
A 48‑year‑old man, named Daniel V in German media, was apprehended near the Weisweiler power plant after a short chase, police announced. He was found carrying explosives and a nearby tent was rigged with more devices, showcasing the depth of pre‑planned sabotage.
Letters claiming responsibility for attacks in Brandenburg, Saxony and North Rhine‑Westphalia were recovered during the arrest. The letters were signed with the first name Daniel but kept the surname private, in line with German privacy laws, and mentioned an address in the town of Gevelsberg.
Explosives were also discovered during earlier searches near high‑voltage lines at the Weisweiler plant and in Saxony, where police found 21 devices last week. Authorities are now checking for hidden devices around the area.
Some power‑generating units have been shut down temporarily, and Interior Minister Armin Schuster warned the attacks could lead to regional blackouts. He added that the method and confession style were unusual, calling officials to remain vigilant.
Police searched the suspect’s apartment in Gevelsberg and found additional explosive devices. The case is ongoing, with investigators still identifying all the affected sites and tracking down any remaining threats.
