Far-Left Group Claims Responsibility for Arson Attack in Berlin, Leaving Thousands Without Power
A far-left activist group in Germany has taken responsibility for an arson incident that disrupted electricity for tens of thousands amid frigid temperatures. This attack, which targeted a gas-fired power plant in Berlin, intensified concerns over public safety and the ongoing impact of activist actions against the fossil fuel economy.
Why It Matters
This incident highlights a growing trend of extreme measures by activist groups in response to climate change and fossil fuel reliance. The attack not only poses immediate risks to public safety but also raises critical questions about the future of energy infrastructure and the balance between environmental activism and public welfare.
Key Developments
- The Vulkangruppe (Volcano Group) claimed that its actions were a deliberate response against the fossil fuel economy.
- Around 45,000 households and 2,200 businesses faced power outages following the fire, which occurred early on Saturday.
- The state economy minister confirmed that incendiary devices were responsible for the outage.
- Berlin’s mayor condemned the incident, accusing left-wing extremists of endangering lives, particularly those in hospitals.
- Emergency measures were implemented, including the provision of backup generators to healthcare facilities and the transfer of patients from affected areas.
- As of Sunday, about 10,000 households and 300 businesses had their power restored, but many remained without electricity.
- Schools set to reopen on Monday will stay closed due to the power disruptions.
- Authorities indicated it may take until Thursday to restore electricity to all customers.
- In a statement, the Vulkangruppe expressed regret for the inconvenience to lower-income residents but showed less empathy for wealthier property owners.
Full Report
Details of the Incident
On Saturday, cables on a bridge near a Berlin power plant were identified as ablaze. Firefighters managed to extinguish the flames, but the damage had already led to substantial outages. Initial reports indicated significant disruption to essential services, especially hospitals.
Authorities’ Responses
The state economy minister attributed the incident to incendiary devices, emphasizing the intentional nature of the attack. Berlin’s mayor condemned the act, highlighting the risks posed to vulnerable populations. In light of the power cuts, emergency responses included deploying backup generators to hospitals and care facilities, with some patients relocated to ensure their safety.
Impacts on Residents and Businesses
Approximately 10,000 households and several businesses experienced power restoration over the weekend. However, the capital’s electricity operator confirmed that full reconnection efforts could extend to Thursday. Some schools, expected to reopen after the Christmas break, will remain closed as efforts continue to restore power.
Vulkangruppe’s Justification
In a statement, the Vulkangruppe framed the attack on the power plant as an “act of self-defense” aimed at drawing attention to issues surrounding environmental protection. They expressed some regret for the impact on less affluent residents while indicating less concern for wealthier homeowners.
Context & Previous Events
This is not the first incident involving the Vulkangruppe, which previously claimed responsibility for a fire that disrupted production at Tesla’s Berlin facility in 2024. Authorities are currently treating this incident as a serious criminal matter, with ongoing investigations into the group’s activities.
