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The explosion was caused by some sort of incendiary device,
according to Frode Larsen, leader of the Oslo police joint unit
for investigation and intelligence. Investigators believe the
embassy was the target and are searching for the perpetrators
and their motive.
Larsen said the embassy's entrance had damage, but no arrests
have been made.
“We are early in the investigation, but we are working based on
multiple hypotheses,” Larsen said in a statement. “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.”
Local media reported that people nearby said the street was
blanketed in thick smoke following the blast. Police are seeking
to talk to witnesses.
A U.S. official said the incendiary device was inside a backpack
and detonated outside the entrance to the Consular Affairs
office at the embassy. The official spoke on condition of
anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.
PST, the Norwegian police security service, called in additional
personnel following the incident, but hasn't changed the
country's terror threat level, according to communication
adviser Martin Bernsen.
“This is an unacceptable incident that is being treated with the
utmost seriousness," said Astri Aas-Hansen, Norway's minister of
justice and public security.
"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 said it was aware of the incident and
was opening its own investigation.
“We thank the Norwegian authorities for supporting the
investigation,” the statement said.
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Dazio reported from Berlin and Lee reported from Washington.
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