Italy's transport minister, Matteo Salvini, has raised alarm over several instances of sabotage that have disrupted train services in the central part of the country, coinciding suspiciously with the opening of the Olympic Games. The authorities are exploring three specific incidents around the Bologna area where the railway lines have been damaged, and they suspect that these acts could be tied to the large-scale international event. News agency ANSA reported that the police are currently investigating these cases in detail.

Among the incidents is a fire on the Bologna-Venice line's points, which police believe was likely set intentionally. However, as of now, no group or individual has claimed responsibility for the act. The situation seems precarious, as the minister highlighted the seriousness of these sabotage events, even drawing comparisons to similar incidents that had previously impacted France's high-speed train network just hours before the opening ceremony of the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.

Salvini has assured that he is closely monitoring the situation, echoing a strong message about the need for vigilance against such security threats during significant national events. The implications of these sabotage acts not only affect the immediate train services but also pose a potential risk to national security and public safety amid the high-profile Olympics framework, which draws global attention.