German military bases sealed off amid suspected sabotage
A view shows the entrance to the German air force base of Cologne-Wahn next to Cologne Bonn Airport, in Cologne, Germany, August 14, 2024. (Photo via Reuters by Stephane Nitschke)
A German military base near Cologne-Bonn airport has been sealed off, and the 4,300 soldiers and 1,200 civilian employees working there have been advised not to drink tap water as authorities investigate what may be an act of sabotage, a security source confirmed Wednesday.
Potential water contamination
The precautionary measure was taken after signs of possible contamination were detected, following a breach in the base’s perimeter.
Authorities, including police, military police and the military intelligence agency, are currently investigating the suspected sabotage, which has raised significant concerns about the safety of the water supply.
The military intelligence agency was not immediately available for comment. Police in Cologne said they could not comment.
High Security at Cologne-Wahn Base
The Cologne-Wahn military base, which houses a fleet of military aircraft used by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and his ministers, has been entirely sealed off.
A spokesperson for the Territorial Command in Berlin confirmed the lockdown but refrained from providing further details, stating: “We have our reasons for taking this action, and we take the case seriously.”
Geilenkirchen NATO Air Base
Following the incident at Cologne-Wahn, security levels were heightened at the NATO air base in Geilenkirchen, located in the same region.
Although initial reports suggested a similar contamination issue at Geilenkirchen, according to media reports a possible contamination of drinking water at Geilenkirchen NATO air base is being investigated.
Broader security concerns
The incident comes amid broader security concerns within NATO, with Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg recently warning of increased hostile activities, including sabotage, attributed to Russian intelligence.
While there is no immediate confirmation of who carried out the sabotage at the Cologne base, the incident aligns with a pattern of bold operations against NATO member states observed in recent months.
