Tesla's German factory hit by arson attack, Elon Musk lashes out at ‘eco-terrorists’

A Tesla Gigafactory near Berlin faced a major disruption on Tuesday due to a fire and subsequent power outage. The disruption is suspected to be caused by an act of arson by a far-left environmental group, Vulkangruppe (Volcano Group), who have claimed responsibility for the fire, although its authenticity remains unverified.

The fire has prompted an evacuation while halting production. Police in Germany’s Brandenburg state are examining a letter, allegedly sent by the Vulkangruppe, claiming responsibility of the fire.

The disruption occurred in Grunheide, about 30 miles east of Berlin, where power cuts were reported early Tuesday. Investigations suggest arson as a possible cause after a fire damaged an electricity pylon in the area. Brandenburg state Interior Minister Michael Stubgen condemned the incident as an attack on the region's electricity infrastructure, endangering thousands by disrupting basic supplies.

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Unknown perpetrators are believed to have ignited the high-voltage pylon, causing significant damage to the power line and affecting surrounding villages and Tesla's nearby Giga Berlin plant.

The State Office of Criminal Investigation has initiated an inquiry into the incident. The Vulkangruppe categorized as left-wing extremist in Germany, reportedly aims for the "complete destruction" of Tesla's Gigafactory, citing environmental concerns over the company's operations.

Meanwhile Elon Musk, co-founder of Tesla, criticized the alleged attackers, denouncing them as "the dumbest eco-terrorists on Earth" on social media platform X. He questioned their targeting of electric cars, considering them environmentally friendly, compared to vehicles powered by fossil fuels.

The Gigafactory's expansion plans have faced opposition from some residents and environmental activists. Concerns about groundwater contamination and water resource depletion have been raised, as the factory is situated partly in a drinking water protection area. Recent tensions escalated as residents voted against the plant's expansion, reflecting community apprehensions.

As investigations continue, the Brandenburg State Office of Criminal Investigation is exploring potential links between the fire and some people camping in the nearby woods. Despite the proximity, authorities note a considerable distance between the camp and the site of the incident.