Prime Minister Solberg's statement on Kongsberg attacks

This is a dramatic situation that has severely affected the local community in Kongsberg. We are deeply disturbed by these attacks. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of those affected.

Extact from Prime Minister Erna Solberg’s statement on 13 October after attacks in Kongsberg.  

Full statement

Prime Minister Erna Solberg 

We have received reports tonight  that a man has killed several people in Kongsberg.

Several people have been wounded.

The police have confirmed that the suspect has been arrested.

As far as the police know at present, the suspect was acting on his own.

It is important to stress that there is still a great deal we do not know.

It is too early to say anything about the motive behind the attack.

The police are assessing whether this was an act of terrorism.

The reports coming from Kongsberg tonight are horrifying.

The suspect has carried out brutal acts of violence against a number of people.

The situation in Kongsberg is dramatic and the community has been hit very hard.

The attack has shocked us.

I understand that many people are afraid.

Therefore, it is important to emphasise that the police believe that they now have the situation under control.

Our thoughts go first and foremost to those who have been affected and to their families.

The police have arrested the suspect.

They are now investigating what happened, how and why.

All the necessary resources have been mobilised. 

I will now ask Monica to say more about that.

Minister of Justice and Public Security Monica Mæland 

This is a very serious incident.

National resources have been mobilised.

The police helicopter, bomb squad and officers in the police tactical unit arrived quickly on the scene in Kongsberg.

In addition, hospitals are on standby and the municipality has established a crisis response team. A crisis response team has also been established at the Ministry of Justice and Public Security.

An temporary order has been issued for police officers nationwide to carry firearms.

I have oriented incoming Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre about this evening’s incident.

I have also spoken with the Mayor of Kongsberg and made certain that both the municipality and the police have the resources they need.

Now it is vital to let the police do their job and to focus on notifying and helping the families of the victims.