Police in Norway investigate explosion outside US Embassy in Oslo
OSLO — Authorities in Norway are currently investigating an explosion that occurred early Sunday outside the U.S. Embassy in Oslo, the capital of Norway.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Oslo police received reports of a “loud bang” or explosion around 1 a.m., as stated in a news release.
The explosion was determined to be caused by some type of incendiary device, according to Frode Larsen, leader of the Oslo police joint unit for investigation and intelligence. Investigators are currently working to identify the perpetrators and ascertain their motive.
Although the embassy’s entrance sustained damage, no arrests have been made at this time.
“We are in the early stages of the investigation, exploring multiple hypotheses,” Larsen stated. “Given the current security climate, it is important to consider whether this was a deliberate attack on the American Embassy. However, we have not yet confirmed any specific hypothesis.”
Reports from local media indicated that witnesses observed thick smoke enveloping the street after the explosion. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Following the incident, PST, the Norwegian police security service, deployed additional personnel. However, the country’s terror threat level has not been altered, according to communication adviser Martin Bernsen.
“This is a reprehensible incident that is being treated with the utmost seriousness,” stated Astri Aas-Hansen, Norway’s minister of justice and public security.
