A group identified as “Kommando Angry Birds,” allegedly with left-wing extremist leanings, claimed responsibility for sabotage acts targeting the railway line north of Leverkusen. The group announced these actions via a statement published on the Indymedia platform, which was reported by WDR. “Kommando Angry Birds” stated that they had placed incendiary devices in cable ducts along the stretch, motivated by the perception of mass death caused by societal progress and by actively aiming to dismantle the industrial-technological system.
Deutsche Bahn confirmed that the incendiary devices severely damaged both the tracks and the overhead lines, resulting in widespread train cancellations and delays between Düsseldorf and Cologne. Repair work was expected to continue until Saturday afternoon. In light of the incident, the state protection unit of the Cologne Police has launched an investigation to determine if criminal actions have taken place.
This is not the group’s first time claiming responsibility for similar attacks, notably on railway lines. Previously, in January 2025, the group had announced responsibility for a fire attack on a crucial freight line in Düsseldorf. The current act of sabotage has led to significant disruption across both local and long-distance public transport, requiring the diversion of trains and causing ongoing delays.
