New Arrest in Bislett Explosion Case
A new person has been arrested in connection with the Bislett explosion in Oslo, with prosecutors requesting detention today. Police say the suspect is being held as part of the ongoing investigation, which has already brought attention to a volatile dispute between criminal groups in the city. The development was first reported by VG, with confirmation from police prosecutors to NRK.
What Police Say and What We Know
According to police prosecutor Henrik Rådal, the individual is siktet (under investigation) in relation to the Tuesday incident. He added that a request for detention has been filed, though few additional details could be disclosed due to case confidentiality. The spokesperson noted that the documents governing the case are currently sealed, which limits public commentary from authorities and defense counsel at this stage.
Defense Responds
The man’s defense attorney, Bjørn Aksel Henriksen, told NRK that his client does not plead guilty to the Bislett incident. Henriksen emphasized that the case materials are sealed and that he cannot provide further commentary beyond confirming the client’s stance. The evolving nature of the investigation means that more information may come to light as the court process advances.
Earlier Arrests Involving Youth
The Bislett case has already featured a series of youthful suspects. Earlier reports indicate two 13-year-olds were brought in, followed by two 15-year-olds who were arrested and released. Oslo police have indicated that these younger individuals could have been acting under orders from others, highlighting a potential larger organization behind the attack.
Crimes “as a Service” and the Youth Link
Authorities are examining whether the assault could be a so-called “crime as a service” case, where someone takes on a violent assignment for a fee. NRK reports that one of the 13-year-olds may have been offered as much as 30,000 kroner to carry out the task, illustrating the high-stakes and potentially criminalized recruitment behind the incident.
Criminal Feud and the Oslo Context
Analysts and investigators say a bitter feud between rival criminal circles may have contributed to the attack and the broader pattern of violence in Oslo. Officials say they quickly suspected the Pilestredet granite attack was targeted, and that recent days of investigation had focused on a conflict among criminals, rather than a random act of violence. In parallel, there are indications that a party abroad is being pressed for millions of kroner, with some speculation linking the case to the Foxtrot network—though officials have not publicly confirmed such ties. The unfolding inquiry remains complex, and authorities are methodically tracing connections, motives, and potential financiers behind the incidents.
What Happens Next
With a new arrest added to an already intricate investigation, Norwegian police say they will continue to pursue leads related to both the crime and any organized criminal networks that may be implicated. The focus remains on ensuring public safety while navigating a web of alleged pay-for-violence schemes, youth involvement, and possible external pressures. Court proceedings will determine the next steps in detention and formal charges as the case develops.
Why This Matters
The Bislett explosions and associated violence have raised concerns about safety in Oslo, especially in how criminal factions recruit and deploy younger individuals. The ongoing investigation illustrates how authorities are adapting to a landscape where violence can be tied to more sophisticated, money-driven criminal ecosystems. As more details emerge from sealed case documents and court filings, the public can expect further updates about arrests, detentions, and the broader network behind the incident.
