Berlin: A German military base near Cologne airport has been sealed off as authorities investigate a suspected sabotage incident, a security source revealed on Wednesday. The base, which houses 4,300 soldiers and 1,200 civilian staff, has advised personnel not to drink tap water due to potential contamination, according to Spiegel magazine.
The precautionary measure follows an intrusion at the base, raising concerns about possible contamination of the water supply. The investigation is being carried out by police, military police, and the military intelligence agency, with the aim of identifying the source and nature of the suspected sabotage.
Located in Cologne-Wahn, the base is significant as it supports the fleet of military aircraft used by Chancellor Olaf Scholz and his ministers. A spokesperson for the Territorial Command in Berlin confirmed the base’s closure but provided no further details, stating, “We have our reasons for taking this action, and we take the case seriously.”
Also Read | Putin Reacts to Unexpected Ukrainian Advance in Kursk, Claims Western Manipulation
NATO has previously warned about increased hostile activities attributed to Moscow, including sabotage and cyberattacks, but there is no current evidence linking the incident at the Cologne base to Russian involvement. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg noted in June that recent attacks may be linked to increased Russian intelligence operations.
Also Read | Hamas Skips Gaza Ceasefire Talks as Iran Considers Retaliation Against Israel
Countries such as Poland, Germany, Britain, and the Czech Republic have reported similar incidents in recent months, reflecting a broader pattern of security concerns in the region.
