Charlotte von Essen, Head of the Swedish Intelligence Agency (SEPO), stated at a press conference in Essen that Sweden’s security situation worsened due to the Qur’an burning actions and protests against them.
“WE INCREASED THE THREAT LEVEL FROM 3 TO 4”
Noting that they took a decision due to the worsening of the security situation, Essen said, “We have increased the threat level of 5 points from 3 to 4 on the national terror scale. The decision is based on an overall assessment of the gradually worsening threat level.” used the phrase.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Minister of Justice Gunnar Strömmer, Chief of Police Anders Thornberg held a joint press conference on the subject with the participation of Essen.
At the meeting, Kristersson said that planned terrorist attacks against Sweden were averted.
STATEMENT FROM THE PRIME MINISTER OF SWEDEN
Reminding that Sweden’s security situation worsened due to the provocations targeting the Holy Quran, Kristersson said, “Our security units informed me that the planned terrorist attacks against Sweden were prevented. For this and many reasons, the national terror threat alert level in our country is fourth from the third category. upgraded to category. said.
Justice Minister Strömmer also stated that Sweden has become “a priority target rather than a legitimate target” for terrorist attacks.
Strömmer said that in the spring, both in Sweden and abroad, many people were detained on suspicion of preparing an attack on Sweden.
Chief of Police Thornberg noted that the Swedish police had been preparing for terrorist attacks for a long time, and that their equipment was sufficient to prevent attacks.
SWEDEN WARNING FROM ENGLAND
After the provocative attacks on the Quran in Sweden, the UK warned its citizens traveling to Sweden about a “terror attack” on 12 August. In a statement made by the British Foreign Office, it was stated that it is very likely that terrorists will attack places visited by foreigners.
Swedish National Security Advisor Henrik Landerholm also made a written statement on August 13, urging Swedes abroad and businesses affiliated with Sweden to “be careful”.
“Representatives of terrorist groups have called for attacks on Sweden. States and other actors have helped reinforce such messages. Sweden has come to be seen ‘from a legitimate target to a priority target,'” Landerholm said. had used the words.
Source: AA