Russian chef arrested for plot to ‘destabilize the Olympic Games’

The Olympic rings will be mounted on the Eiffel Tower in Paris on Friday, June 7, 2024. Paris Olympic organizers mounted the rings on the Eiffel Tower on Friday as the French capital is 50 days away from the start of the Summer Games. The 95-foot-long, 43-foot-tall five-ring structure, made entirely of recycled French steel, will be displayed on the south side of the 135-year-old historic landmark in central Paris overlooking the Seine River. (AP Photo//Thomas Padilla)

(NewsNation) — French authorities have arrested a 40-year-old Russian man living in France on suspicion of planning a “large-scale” act of destabilization of the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, officials said this week.

The suspect, who had reportedly lived in France for 14 years, was accused of conducting intelligence work for a foreign power. During a raid on his Paris home, investigators discovered evidence, including a document linked to a special unit of Russia’s FSB intelligence agency, The Guardian reported.

The arrest came as Paris tightened security for the Olympics. Authorities have banned 5,000 people who failed background checks from attending events and deployed thousands of extra police officers from around the world.

The situation is tense due to ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, with officials concerned about potential security threats. A former intelligence agent suggested that criminals might try to make a statement during the high-profile event.

In another incident, arson attacks on the French high-speed rail network caused traffic disruptions and affected the travel of some athletes to the Olympic ceremonies. French authorities described the sabotage as “prepared and coordinated” and said repairs were carried out “meticulously”.

Three fires were reported near the tracks on the Atlantique, Nord and Est high-speed lines. French officials condemned the attacks as “criminal acts”.

Train services are gradually resuming, but delays are expected throughout the weekend. Investigations into the railway attacks are ongoing. The suspects are still at large and there is no clear motive.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.