German Authorities Offer €1 Million Reward in Berlin Arson Attack Inquiry

Investigation Intensifies After Major Blackout

German authorities have escalated their efforts to apprehend those responsible for the January 3, 2026 arson attack that crippled parts of Berlin's power grid. A reward of up to €1 million has been offered by the German Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) for information leading to the arrest of the perpetrators. This substantial bounty, considered the largest ever for a single suspect in Germany, has reportedly led to a surge of public tips, which the BKA is currently evaluating.

The attack, which occurred on a cable bridge over the Teltow Canal in Lichterfelde, southwest Berlin, near the Lichterfelde heat and power station, resulted in a massive power outage. Approximately 45,000 households and 2,200 businesses in districts such as Steglitz-Zehlendorf, Nikolassee, Zehlendorf, and Wannsee were left without electricity and heating. The disruption lasted for several days, with full power restoration not achieved until January 7th or 8th, marking it as the longest blackout in Berlin since World War II.

'Vulkangruppe' Claims Responsibility

Shortly after the incident, a far-left extremist group identifying itself as 'Vulkangruppe' (Volcano Group) claimed responsibility for the arson in an online letter. In their statement, the group asserted their aim was to 'cut the juice to the ruling class' and expressed protest against fossil fuel consumption, the climate crisis, and the energy demands of AI data centers. While the group offered an apology to less affluent residents affected by the blackout, they conveyed no sympathy for wealthy homeowners. However, a few days later, a Vulkangruppe reportedly distanced itself from the actions carried out in its name.

Official Condemnation and Ongoing Investigation

The attack drew strong condemnation from German officials. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt and Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner both denounced the act, with Mayor Wegner describing it as an 'absolutely unacceptable' act of terrorism that endangered lives. The investigation, initially handled by Berlin police, has since been transferred to the Public Prosecutor General, indicating the serious nature of the crime and the potential involvement of a terrorist organization.

The Vulkangruppe has a documented history of similar acts of sabotage targeting critical infrastructure. Previous incidents include an arson attack on the Tesla Gigafactory near Berlin in March 2024, which temporarily halted production, and another power outage in Berlin in September 2025. The deadline for submitting information to the BKA for the €1 million reward is February 24, 2026.