An explosion struck the U.S. Embassy in Oslo, Norway, early Sunday morning, prompting a large-scale police response.
Police received multiple reports of the blast around 1 a.m. Local time and quickly arrived at the scene, discovering damage at the embassy’s public entrance, according to police operations leader Michael Dellemyr.
“The damage is minor,” Dellemyr told NRK. “We will not comment on the type of damage, what exploded, or similar matters. Beyond that, there was an explosion.”
Authorities are withholding further details as the investigation is in its early stages and they require to determine the nature of the incident, Dellemyr explained.
The police bomb squad’s armored vehicle was parked within the police cordon at the embassy overnight.
Investigators conducted searches of the area using canine units, drones, and a helicopter, looking for potential suspects. The incident comes amid heightened global security concerns.
“A full investigation will be underway here for many hours,” Dellemyr said. “We are working to speak with witnesses.”
When asked if authorities were confident there were no further threats, Dellemyr responded, “Yes, considering all those who live in the surrounding area, police have conducted searches in close proximity to the embassy. We have not found anything to suggest there is any further danger in the area.”
Police officers are seen outside the U.S. Embassy.
Foto: Nadir Alam / NRK
In a press release issued at 4 a.m. Local time, police stated they are treating such incidents in public spaces with the utmost seriousness and are investigating the matter with significant resources and a high priority.
Police are asking anyone with information about the incident or unusual observations in the Makrellbekken area between midnight and 2 a.m. To submit tips through their online portal at tips.politiet.no.
Sørkedalsveien remains closed to traffic, and authorities have not yet determined how long the closure will last. “It’s tricky to say,” Dellemyr said. “We will keep it closed as long as we need to carry out the investigations.”
Forensic technicians worked within the police cordon at the U.S. Embassy overnight.
Foto: Nadir Alam / NRK
Police declined to comment on the security measures in place at the embassy that allowed for the placement of explosives near the building. Dellemyr stated there is good communication between the police and the embassy.
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