Delays at the Milan train station, as Italian police investigate possible sabotage to electricity cables near the city of Bologna that have caused delays to a large part of the national railway network, in Milan, Italy, February 7, 2026. Phot Credit: REUTERS/Guglielmo Mangiapane
Delays at Milan train station, as Italian police investigate possible cable sabotage
Rail traffic in northern Italy was disrupted on the opening day of the 2026 Winter Olympics after an anarchist group claimed responsibility for acts of sabotage targeting railway infrastructure, according to authorities. reported by Reuters.
The incidents occurred early Saturday near Bologna, affecting both high-speed and regional rail services. Train operators reported delays of up to two and a half hours. Officials said no injuries were reported and no trains were damaged.
In a statement published online, the group said it had shifted away from public demonstrations, arguing that increased policing and restrictions on protests had made street actions ineffective. The statement criticized the Olympic Games, describing them as a symbol of nationalism and expanded state surveillance, and said the rail disruptions were intended as a form of resistance, according to Reuters.
Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini condemned the actions and said authorities were working to identify those responsible, according to Reuters. Writing on social media, Salvini said law enforcement would pursue the perpetrators and vowed that the Games would proceed despite the disruptions.
The claim followed a series of protests tied to opposition to Italy’s hosting of the Winter Games. In Milan, police said a group of masked protesters broke away from a larger anti-Olympics rally, throwing flares and fireworks at officers. No serious injuries were reported.
According to Reuters, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also denounced both the rail incidents and the protests, calling them attacks on public safety and Italy’s international standing.
Italian authorities said rail services were gradually restored and security measures around transport infrastructure were being reviewed as the Games continue.
