French-Swiss airport gets emptied over bomb threat before Olympics
Date
7/28/2024 7:02:02 AM
(MENAFN) Early on Friday, authorities evacuated the Basel-Mulhouse EuroAirport, situated on the French side of the Franco-Swiss border near Basel, following a bomb threat, French media reported citing law enforcement sources.
According to the Haut-Rhin prefecture, which spoke to Agence France-Presse (AFP), the decision to close the airport temporarily was made as a precautionary measure in response to the threat. Standard security protocols were activated, including the deployment of explosives experts to ensure the safety of the facility.
The EuroAirport management later confirmed that operations had resumed and the airport was operating normally again. In a statement posted on its website, the management reassured passengers that flight services were gradually restarting, while advising them to contact their respective airlines for updates on their flights.
This incident occurred amidst heightened security concerns in France, which has been grappling with a series of disruptive events including arson attacks and cable thefts targeting the high-speed train network TGV. The deliberate disruptions, described as acts of sabotage, coincided with the lead-up to the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics on Friday.
The disruption to travel due to these incidents has affected approximately 800,000 travelers, with significant train cancellations and diversions anticipated until at least Monday, as reported by SNCF, France's state railway operator.
The authorities continue to investigate these incidents while maintaining vigilance across key transport hubs and infrastructure, especially during the heightened security environment surrounding major events like the Paris Olympics.
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