Suspected track sabotage disrupts rail services across the Netherlands

Rail services were cancelled or delayed across parts of the Netherlands, including routes serving Amsterdam, Utrecht and Schiphol, after materials were found on tracks at several locations. ProRail described the disruption as apparently deliberate, while police investigate and no suspects or motive have been identified.

Rail services across parts of the Netherlands were severely disrupted on Tuesday after materials were found deliberately placed on tracks at multiple locations, according to railway operator ProRail.

The disruption affected the country’s centre and north, including services connected with Amsterdam, Utrecht and Schiphol airport. ProRail warned passengers to expect cancellations and delays, while several level crossings were also reported to be malfunctioning.

ProRail said the objects had caused malfunctions in sections of the rail network and that sabotage appeared to be involved. In a statement, it described the incident as an intentional disruption caused by human action.

Local media reported that pipes had been attached to the tracks in several places. Footage published by Dutch public broadcaster NOS showed police carrying what appeared to be metal pipes away from railway tracks at Veenendaal in the central Netherlands. The pipes were reported to be about 1.5 metres long.

The railway operator said 15 disruptions had been recorded across the country on Tuesday. It did not identify anyone responsible and said that no motive had been established. The national police unit was investigating, according to ProRail, while the BBC said it had contacted police for comment.

The available information does not indicate whether the disruption caused injuries or damage beyond the reported rail and crossing malfunctions. ProRail’s warnings covered a large part of the network, leaving passengers in affected areas facing cancellations and delays while the investigation continued.