Police in Norway are looking into an explosion that occurred outside the U.S. Embassy in Oslo early Sunday morning. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. Authorities began receiving calls about a loud bang around 1 a.m.
Frode Larsen, the head of Oslo’s police investigative unit, noted that the explosion was caused by some sort of incendiary device. Investigators suspect the embassy was the target and are trying to understand the motives behind it. Larsen mentioned that while the entrance to the embassy sustained damage, no arrests have taken place yet.
He added, “We’re still in the early stages of the investigation and analyzing various possibilities. Given the current security environment, we must consider the chance that this was a deliberate attack on the embassy.”
Witnesses reported seeing thick smoke in the area after the blast, and police are actively seeking more information from anyone who was nearby. A U.S. official revealed that the device was found inside a backpack, detonating outside the entrance to the Consular Affairs office.
Following the incident, Norway’s security service, PST, deployed additional personnel. However, they have not changed the country’s terror threat level. Communication advisor Martin Bernsen confirmed that the situation has been assessed carefully.
Astri Aas-Hansen, Norway’s Minister of Justice and Public Security, labeled the explosion as “unacceptable” and assured the public that the police are dedicating significant resources to the investigation. “So far, nothing indicates that the public is at risk,” she stated.
The U.S. Embassy referred inquiries to the State Department, which has not yet provided a comment.
This incident highlights rising security concerns affecting diplomatic missions globally. A recent survey by the International Centre for the Study of Radicalisation found that attacks on embassies have been increasing, raising alarms about safety for diplomats and staff.
As this investigation unfolds, it’s a reminder of the often-hidden threats facing diplomatic personnel and the importance of vigilance in maintaining security in volatile times.
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General news, Law enforcement, Oslo, Norway, Frode Larsen, Martin Bernsen, World news, Terrorism, Washington news, U.S. Department of State, Politics
