Mohamed Orahhou, a security guard at the U.S. embassy in Norway, has been arrested for allegedly sharing sensitive information with Russian and Iranian officials, prompting serious investigations amid increasing fears of foreign espionage activities in Europe.
Norwegian Security Guard Arrested for Alleged Espionage Ties with Russia and Iran
Norwegian Security Guard Arrested for Alleged Espionage Ties with Russia and Iran
A 27-year-old man employed at the U.S. embassy in Oslo faces serious espionage charges, highlighting growing concerns over foreign intelligence operations in Europe.
Authorities in Norway have apprehended a 27-year-old man working as a security guard at the United States embassy in Oslo, following accusations of transmitting sensitive information to Russian and Iranian governmental representatives. The accused, named Mohamed Orahhou, has reportedly acknowledged during interrogations that he collected and relayed information to an operative from Russia's domestic intelligence agency, the S.V.R., as well as to unspecified officials from Iran, according to statements from the Norwegian authorities and Orahhou's lawyer.
While specific details about the nature of the sensitive information have not yet been disclosed, the Oslo court has determined that the severity of the allegations necessitates Mr. Orahhou's detention for a duration of four weeks, pending further investigation. Another legal hearing is anticipated to follow the period of confinement. “This is a very serious case,” remarked Thomas Blom, an official from Norway’s Police Security Service, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. “We are at the very beginning of a rather extensive investigation.”
This apprehension adds to existing worries regarding Russian espionage throughout Europe, especially given recent surges in hostile activities, including arson, vandalism, and assaults believed to be orchestrated by Russian operatives. Earlier this month, information surfaced regarding a suspected Russian scheme aimed at deploying incendiary devices on cargo planes within Europe, while on Thursday, U.S. intelligence officials urged American defense firms to remain vigilant regarding possible sabotage operations tied to Russian actors.
In addition, Ken McCallum, the principal director of Britain’s domestic intelligence agency, MI5, recently articulated concerns about ongoing efforts by Russian intelligence personnel targeting chaos and disruption across British and European territories.
