Norwegian authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation following an explosion outside the United States Embassy in the capital city of Oslo during the early hours of Sunday morning.
Whilst officials have confirmed that no injuries were sustained during the incident, the explosion has triggered a significant security response across the city. The blast, described by local residents as a “loud bang,” occurred at approximately 1:00 am, prompting immediate reports to the Oslo police.
Frode Larsen, leader of the Oslo police joint unit for investigation and intelligence, confirmed that the blast was caused by an incendiary device. Investigators currently believe that the embassy was the specific target of the act. Although the entrance to the facility sustained visible damage, no arrests have yet been made.
“We are in the early stages of the investigation, but we are working based on multiple hypotheses,” Mr Larsen stated in an official dispatch. “Given the current international security climate, it is natural to consider whether this was a deliberate and targeted attack on the American Embassy. However, we have not committed to any single hypothesis at this time.”
Witnesses in the vicinity reported that the street was momentarily blanketed in thick smoke following the detonation. Police are currently appealing for further witnesses to come forward to assist with the inquiry.
According to a US official speaking on condition of anonymity, the incendiary device was concealed within a backpack and positioned outside the entrance to the Consular Affairs centre at the embassy.
In response to the incident, the Norwegian Police Security Service (PST) has mobilised additional personnel to bolster security. However, communication adviser Martin Bernsen confirmed that the national terror threat level remains unchanged for the time being.
The incident has drawn sharp condemnation from the Norwegian government. Astri Aas-Hansen, the Minister of Justice and Public Security, characterised the event as “unacceptable” and assured the public that it is being treated with the “utmost seriousness.”
“The police have indicated that they are investigating the case with significant resources,” the Minister remarked. “Nothing currently indicates that the situation poses a broader danger to the public.”
The US Embassy in Oslo has referred all further media enquiries to the US State Department in Washington D.C. In a brief statement, the State Department confirmed it is aware of the explosion and has initiated its own parallel investigation.
“We thank the Norwegian authorities for their steadfast support in this investigation,” the statement concluded.
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