Oslo police are currently investigating an explosion that occurred early Sunday outside the U.S. Embassy in the Norwegian capital. No injuries were reported, but the blast caused damage to the embassy’s entrance, officials said, reports Baltimore Chronicle with reference to ABC.
Authorities received multiple reports of a “loud bang” around 1 a.m., prompting an immediate response from local police units. Frode Larsen, head of the Oslo police joint unit for investigation and intelligence, stated that the explosion was caused by an incendiary device and that the embassy is believed to have been the deliberate target. Investigators are actively searching for those responsible and attempting to determine the motive behind the attack.
According to Larsen, the investigation remains in its early stages. “We are working based on multiple hypotheses,” he said. “Given the current security situation, it is natural to consider whether this was a targeted attack on the American Embassy. However, we have not committed to any single hypothesis.” No arrests have been made so far.
Local media reported that residents near the embassy observed thick smoke spreading along the street immediately after the blast. Police are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward and provide information.
The Norwegian Police Security Service (PST) deployed additional personnel to the area in response to the incident but has not raised the national terror threat level, according to communication adviser Martin Bernsen.
Norway’s Minister of Justice and Public Security, Astri Aas-Hansen, condemned the attack, stating, “This is an unacceptable incident that is being treated with the utmost seriousness. The police have stated that they are investigating the case with significant resources, and that nothing indicates the situation poses any danger to the public.”
The U.S. Embassy in Oslo referred media inquiries to the U.S. State Department, which did not immediately respond. Oslo police also declined to provide further details.
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