A gun attack took place in and around a gay bar in Oslo, the capital of Norway. Two people lost their lives and more than 20 were injured in the incident that took place on the day of the traditional Pride parade in the city.
Authorities said the suspect, whom they identified as a 42-year-old Norwegian citizen of Iranian origin, was thought to be a radical Islamist with mental health problems in the past, and that this person had been known to intelligence agencies since 2015.
In the early hours of Saturday, the attack on the popular gay bar called London Pub in the center of the capital was the target of bullets both inside and outside the bar, as well as people from the surrounding streets and another bar.
Eyewitnesses told that 80 to 100 people inside took shelter in the basement to escape from the bullets during the incident, they sought their families and loved ones, and there were moments of fear.
The police announced that the suspect, who they thought was acting alone, was caught minutes after he started shooting. It was also reported that two weapons, one of which was fully automatic, were seized at the scene.
Being investigated as an act of terrorism
While the incident is being investigated as an act of terrorism, Norwegian security authorities raised the terrorist threat level in the country to the highest level after the attack.
It has been announced that the Norwegian police, who normally do not carry weapons, will also carry weapons until further notice.
The traditional Pride parade scheduled for today in Oslo has been cancelled.
“We must stand together and protect our values of freedom, diversity and respect for one another,” said Norwegian King Harald, who said he and his royal family were horrified by the attack.
It was also noted that 10 of the 21 people injured in the attack were in serious condition.