In a troubling series of events, Nice experienced a power outage affecting 45,000 homes following a fire at a local electrical substation, linking this incident to a prior blackout in Cannes.
Power Outages Spark Concerns of Sabotage on French Riviera
Power Outages Spark Concerns of Sabotage on French Riviera
A series of suspicious power cuts have cast a shadow over France’s French Riviera region, igniting fears of criminal interference.
Authorities in Nice reported that the fire, which erupted in the early hours of Sunday, was likely the result of malicious activity. This incident occurred just a day after Cannes experienced a substantial power loss, during which 160,000 homes were left in darkness, coinciding with the city's prestigious film festival. The connection between the two outages remains unconfirmed.
Police investigations revealed "tire tracks" near the scene and a damaged door at the Nice substation. Local officials, including Nice's mayor Christian Estrosi, condemned these "malicious acts" that disrupt public services and community safety. Deputy mayor Gaël Nofri suggested that this fire might have criminal origins, echoing sentiments from the Cannes blackout that was also attributed to suspected arson.
The power outage in Cannes led to interruptions at film screenings, forcing organizers to rely on private generators. Despite the overlapping timing of these outages, no direct link has been established between the incidents at this time.
In light of the escalating situation, local authorities have pledged to enhance security around electrical facilities, as investigators probe the circumstances surrounding these outages. Nice prosecutor Damien Martinelli confirmed that efforts are being made to understand both the extent of the damage and the methods used outside of normal law.
A comprehensive investigation into organized arson remains active, provoking concern among residents and prompting city officials to take precautionary measures to protect vital infrastructure on the French Riviera.
Police investigations revealed "tire tracks" near the scene and a damaged door at the Nice substation. Local officials, including Nice's mayor Christian Estrosi, condemned these "malicious acts" that disrupt public services and community safety. Deputy mayor Gaël Nofri suggested that this fire might have criminal origins, echoing sentiments from the Cannes blackout that was also attributed to suspected arson.
The power outage in Cannes led to interruptions at film screenings, forcing organizers to rely on private generators. Despite the overlapping timing of these outages, no direct link has been established between the incidents at this time.
In light of the escalating situation, local authorities have pledged to enhance security around electrical facilities, as investigators probe the circumstances surrounding these outages. Nice prosecutor Damien Martinelli confirmed that efforts are being made to understand both the extent of the damage and the methods used outside of normal law.
A comprehensive investigation into organized arson remains active, provoking concern among residents and prompting city officials to take precautionary measures to protect vital infrastructure on the French Riviera.
