Construction Foam Attacks Target Cars in Germany, Raising Fears of Election Interference
Berlin, Germany – november 23, 2024 – German authorities are investigating a wave of sabotage targeting vehicles across multiple federal states, involving the deliberate covering of cars in rapidly expanding construction foam. The incidents, numbering over 100 reported cases as of today, are raising concerns about potential attempts to influence the upcoming federal election, though a clear motive and perpetrator remain unidentified.
The attacks, first reported in late October 2024, have primarily affected vehicles parked in residential areas, causing critically important damage and disruption for owners. While no injuries have been reported, the incidents have sparked anxieties about political instability and the vulnerability of democratic processes. Investigators are treating the cases as potential acts of sabotage, examining possible links to extremist groups or foreign interference. The scale and coordinated nature of the attacks suggest a deliberate campaign rather than isolated incidents.
The first reports surfaced in Brandenburg on October 27, 2024, quickly spreading to Berlin, Saxony, and other regions. Victims have described finding their vehicles entirely encased in polyurethane foam,rendering them unusable and requiring professional removal services. The cost of cleanup ranges from several hundred to several thousand euros per vehicle, placing a financial burden on those affected.
Police have stated that the foam used in the attacks is a commercially available product, making tracing the source challenging. However, investigators are analyzing surveillance footage and social media activity for clues. Authorities have not ruled out any potential motives,including environmental activism,anti-government sentiment,or attempts to sow discord ahead of the election.
“We are taking these incidents very seriously,” stated a spokesperson for the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) on November 22, 2024. “All available resources are being deployed to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice. We are also working closely with domestic intelligence agencies to assess the potential political implications.”
germany has experienced heightened security concerns in recent months, amid growing fears of Russian sabotage and hybrid warfare tactics, as reported by Zeit Online in December 2024 and January 2025. While no direct link to these broader concerns has been established, authorities are exploring all possibilities. The attacks come at a sensitive time, with Germany facing numerous challenges, including economic uncertainty and a polarized political landscape. The federal election is scheduled for autumn 2025, and the outcome could have significant implications for the country’s future direction.
