Copper Cable Theft Disrupts Spanish Rail Services

A significant theft of copper cables has severely disrupted Spain's high-speed AVE train network, affecting over 10,000 passengers during a busy holiday weekend. The incident, described by transport minister Óscar Puente as 'serious sabotage,' involved the theft of vital signaling cables at multiple locations in Toledo.

Authorities are investigating the crime, which also highlighted vulnerabilities in the protection of critical infrastructure. Many trains were forced to halt or operate at reduced speeds, leading to widespread chaos and criticism of the rail operator's crisis response.

While services began to normalize, political tensions arose, with opposition parties demanding accountability and audits of the rail system. The investigation continues as officials seek to apprehend those responsible for this significant disruption to public transport.