Activist group says it was behind Berlin fire that cut power to thousands

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete January 4, 2026 at 07:44 PM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

A far-left activist group, the Vulkangruppe, claimed responsibility for a suspected arson attack on a power plant in Berlin, Germany, on Saturday. The attack caused a widespread power outage, affecting approximately 45,000 households and 2,200 businesses, including hospitals, in freezing temperatures. The group stated the action targeted the fossil fuel economy, apologizing to less affluent residents but expressing less sympathy for wealthier homeowners. Authorities are investigating the incident, with police finding the group's claim "plausible." Power restoration is expected to continue until Thursday, and some schools will remain closed. The Vulkangruppe previously claimed responsibility for an arson attack on Tesla's Berlin car factory in 2024.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

AFP 40% Tesla 50% Germany ×270% Berlin ×380% Vulkangruppe (Volcano Group) ×590%

Keywords

power outage 90% arson attack 90% activist group 80% vulkangruppe 70% berlin 70% fossil fuel economy 60% emergency power 50% left-wing extremism 50% gas-fired power plant 40%