What Happened When a 13-Year-Old Triggered a Grenade Explosion in Oslo?

A 13-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with a significant explosion in Oslo, Norway, believed to be caused by a hand grenade. The blast occurred in the Bislett neighbourhood at 8:43 PM on Tuesday, resulting in no reported injuries but raising concerns about additional explosive devices in the area.

Last updated: 12 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• A 13-year-old boy has been arrested following a grenade explosion in Oslo.
• The explosion occurred near OsloMet university, causing no injuries.
• Police detonated a second unexploded grenade shortly after the first blast.
• Witnesses reported the scene as chaotic, with drones spotted overhead.
• Officials believe the incident may be linked to criminal activities.

What Happened in Oslo?

The incident unfolded in the Bislett area of Oslo, where a loud explosion was reported around 8:43 PM. Witnesses described the sound as a "real boom," prompting immediate concern among residents. The police quickly responded to the scene, where they found evidence of a hand grenade explosion, as confirmed by operations manager Øyvind Hammervold.

The Arrest and Ongoing Investigation

Authorities have arrested a minor, specifically a boy born in 2012. Incident commander Brian Skotnes indicated that while one individual is in custody, they suspect that more people may be involved in this incident. The motives behind the explosion are still being investigated, with police suggesting a possible "showdown between criminals" as a driving factor.

Details of the Explosion

Witnesses reported a significant blast that not only startled residents but also resulted in property damage. One driver reported that the explosion shattered the windows on one side of his vehicle, illustrating the force of the blast. Several emergency alerts were triggered on mobile phones, indicating the severity of the situation.

Witness Accounts and Community Reaction

Residents recounted the chaos following the explosion. Tina Sviggum, 25, described seeing a man who seemed to take control of the situation, warning others about the grenade. This indicates a level of community awareness and response that can often be critical in such dangerous situations.

One bystander noted that the explosion was so loud it caused pain in their ears, highlighting the intensity of the blast. Photographs from the scene show an unexploded hand grenade lying in a pedestrian crossing, raising alarms about potential further danger in the area.

Police Response and Safety Measures

After the initial explosion, police acted swiftly to ensure the safety of the public. At around 9:44 PM, they detonated a second unexploded grenade, further demonstrating their commitment to preventing additional incidents. The presence of drones in the area also suggests that authorities were monitoring the situation closely.

Potential Implications

This incident raises significant concerns about public safety and the presence of explosives in urban areas. The police are working diligently to gather more information and ascertain the broader implications of the explosion. The potential involvement of criminal factions adds a layer of complexity to the investigation, as authorities seek to dismantle any networks responsible for such dangerous activities.

Conclusion

The explosion in Oslo serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with illegal firearms and explosives. As investigations continue, the community remains on alert, and officials are working to ensure that any further threats are neutralised. The quick response from local authorities has likely prevented injuries and further chaos, but it also highlights the ongoing challenges posed by criminal activities in urban environments.

As Oslo deals with the aftermath of this alarming incident, questions linger about the motivations behind such violent acts and what measures can be taken to prevent them in the future. The community's resilience and the police's vigilance will be crucial as they navigate this troubling situation.

FAQs

What caused the explosion in Oslo?

The explosion in Oslo was reportedly caused by a hand grenade, with authorities confirming this shortly after the incident occurred.

Who has been arrested in connection with the explosion?

A 13-year-old boy has been arrested, and police believe multiple individuals may be involved in the incident.

Were there any injuries reported from the explosion?

No injuries have been reported following the explosion, although there was significant property damage in the area.

What measures are authorities taking after the explosion?

Authorities detonated a second unexploded grenade and are actively investigating to ensure public safety and understand the context of the explosion.

Is this explosion related to criminal activity?

Police suspect that the explosion may be linked to a "showdown between criminals," indicating a potential connection to organised crime.