The Riviera experienced another wave of chaos as a fire marked by suspicious circumstances broke out at a Nice power substation, cutting off electricity to 45,000 homes early Sunday morning. The incident, occurring only a day after a massive blackout in Cannes attributed to a suspected arson attack, has raised alarms about coordinated attacks on critical infrastructure.
Eyewitness reports indicate the fire started around 02:00 local time, with the city's mayor, Christian Estrosi, strongly condemning what he described as “malicious acts affecting our country.” The fire left essential services, including Nice Airport and tram operations, in disarray. Local authorities further revealed "tire tracks" found near the substation and a broken door entry, hinting at possible foul play.
Cannes, meanwhile, was grappling with its electrical blackout during the prestigious film festival, impacting numerous screenings before backup generators became operational. Approximately 160,000 residences lost power due to that incident, compelling officials to heighten their scrutiny on electricity site security.
As investigations unfold, Nice prosecutor Damien Martinelli emphasized that efforts are being made to ascertain the extent of the damage and the methods used in these provocative acts. While no direct connection between the two incidents has been officially established, authorities are pursuing leads and tightening security around vital electric facilities.
Eyewitness reports indicate the fire started around 02:00 local time, with the city's mayor, Christian Estrosi, strongly condemning what he described as “malicious acts affecting our country.” The fire left essential services, including Nice Airport and tram operations, in disarray. Local authorities further revealed "tire tracks" found near the substation and a broken door entry, hinting at possible foul play.
Cannes, meanwhile, was grappling with its electrical blackout during the prestigious film festival, impacting numerous screenings before backup generators became operational. Approximately 160,000 residences lost power due to that incident, compelling officials to heighten their scrutiny on electricity site security.
As investigations unfold, Nice prosecutor Damien Martinelli emphasized that efforts are being made to ascertain the extent of the damage and the methods used in these provocative acts. While no direct connection between the two incidents has been officially established, authorities are pursuing leads and tightening security around vital electric facilities.
