The German army is closing two sites for suspected sabotage.
Initially, the incident was reported at the Cologne barracks. According to a spokesperson, "abnormal values" were detected during the ongoing drinking water inspection overnight on Tuesday. Additionally, a hole in a fence was noticed, "through which a person could pass".
The water was subsequently turned off, and the barracks were cordoned off. The search for an intruder proved fruitless. After several hours, the restrictions were lifted. No illnesses due to possible water contamination were reported. Water samples are still being analyzed.
The spokesperson further stated that the hole was only found in the fence leading directly to the barracks' own waterworks. The outer fence surrounding the entire support point was undamaged. Authorities suspect one or more perpetrators. Video footage is now being reviewed.
Whether there is a connection between the water values and the hole in the fence remains unclear. "We are taking this incident very seriously," the spokesperson said.
On Wednesday morning, another NATO base in Geilenkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, was cordoned off. As reported by the "Süddeutsche", a possible water contamination was also being investigated there. The barracks is also said to have its own waterworks. There, too, a suspect was reportedly seen.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense declined to comment on a possible "violation of humans". The Territorial Command stated regarding the incident in Cologne: "We wish a speedy and full recovery to any Bundeswehr members who may have been affected by the incident." Close and trusting cooperation with the investigating authorities is being maintained for clarification.
The barracks in Cologne houses several command headquarters as well as military and civilian units of the Bundeswehr. The Federal Ministry of Defense's Air Transport Wing is also based here, as the barracks is adjacent to Cologne/Bonn Airport. Awacs surveillance aircraft of NATO are stationed in Geilenkirchen, among others.
The Commission has expressed concern over the incident at the Cologne barracks, considering the potential threat to the water supply due to the detected abnormal values and the suspicious hole in the fence. The Commission is closely monitoring the situation and is working in collaboration with the investigating authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the personnel at the barracks.
