In brief
Spanish authorities are investigating the theft of copper cables that disrupted train services, affecting over 10,000 passengers and leaving many stranded overnight as transport operations gradually return to normal.
Thousands of travelers experienced travel chaos over the weekend after copper cable thefts disrupted high-speed train services between Madrid and Spain's southern Andalusia region. The incident led to significant delays and stranded passengers overnight. Transport Minister Óscar Puente condemned the theft, labeling it a "serious act of sabotage," noting that cables were stolen at five different locations near the high-speed rail line. “Operations are now fully restored after a very difficult night for commuters and staff,” he reported.The affected train routes were vital for passengers traveling to and from major cities like Seville, Malaga, Valencia, and Granada, impacting more than 10,000 individuals. This disruption came right after a long weekend in Madrid and right before the annual Feria festival in Seville, which typically sees an increase in travelers.Witnesses at the Madrid Atocha station expressed their concern and confusion at the frequency of such incidents, following a recent blackout that hit Spain and Portugal. On Monday morning, Spanish authorities—including the civil guard and police—initiated investigations to determine the details of the cable theft and identify individuals responsible. As the demand for copper has risen in recent years, thefts from key transportation and communication infrastructure have become increasingly common.Spain's national rail manager, Adif, announced that train services were gradually returning to normal by Monday afternoon, as investigations continued into the circumstances surrounding the thefts.
