Heightened security measures in Bundeswehr amid sabotage probe

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius called for increased vigilance. The minister's position is related to the suspicion of sabotage at Bundeswehr barracks. The investigation into this matter is being conducted by German authorities.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence confirmed that an investigation is underway due to a suspicion of an attempt or actual illegal intrusion. He added that there is also suspicion of sabotage.

During drinking water inspections, values deviating from the norm were found. A hole large enough for a person to fit through the fence was then noticed. It is still unclear whether there is a connection between the water quality and the hole in the fence. "We take the incident very seriously," the spokesperson said.

As reported by the weekly "Der Spiegel" on Wednesday, the army urged soldiers and civilian personnel not to drink the contaminated water under any circumstances.

The portal Tagesschau.de recalled that in the generally tense situation, suspicious observations have also been made on the outskirts of the NATO airbase in Geilenkirchen, from where reconnaissance flights take off and land.

The Defence Minister recommended increased vigilance after the incidents. "We reacted quickly at both locations, sealed off access, intensified controls, involved investigative authorities, and ordered lab tests. These incidents show that we must remain vigilant," Pistorius told the weekly "Der Spiegel."

"Of course, we are also reviewing our security measures and adjusting them if necessary, which is already underway," he emphasised.