As the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina approach, tensions have escalated in Italy, marked by recent acts of sabotage targeting the railway system. Following threats and announcements from anarchist groups, these groups have transitioned from rhetoric to action, resulting in severe disruptions to train services. The backlash has seen delays of up to 140 minutes, affecting numerous commuters and travelers.

The sabotage incidents occurred near Salaria in Rome, where police reported tampering with a junction box and burned cables, prompting a cascading effect on high-speed train routes between Rome-Naples and Rome-Florence. Technicians worked swiftly to restore services, managing to reinstate traffic on the affected lines by the end of the day, but the disruption highlighted the volatility of the situation and the potential for further escalation as protests continue.

Investigations are underway by both the railway police and the special police units, with a report sent to the public prosecutor’s office in Rome. Law enforcement is treating these acts as deliberate sabotage, drawing attention to the seriousness of the situation and its implications for national security and public safety in the lead-up to a significant international sporting event.