Heightened Terror Threat Prompts Increased Security Measures for Nobel Festivities
Following the recent increase in the terror threat level in Sweden, the police are re-evaluating security measures for the upcoming Nobel festivities on Sunday. The decision comes after Säpo, the Swedish security service, raised the terror threat level from three to four on a five-point scale on August 17, citing an increased likelihood of terrorist attacks occurring in the country.
EU Commissioner Ylva Johansson also warned of an increased terrorist threat within the EU, particularly after a series of recent terrorist acts in EU countries. This includes the tragic incident in Brussels on October 16, where two Swedes were shot dead and another was seriously injured while attending a European Championship qualifying match.
According to Säpo, the security situation has only deteriorated further since the terror threat level was raised, with reports of increased activity among violent extremists in Sweden. Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer, along with Säpo’s acting operational manager Fredrik Hallström and Noa’s commanding officer Per Engström, emphasized the ongoing threat against Sweden during a press conference on Friday.
The heightened security measures for the Nobel festivities will involve a rethinking of security strategies, as the event is expected to attract a large number of high-profile guests, including royalty, prize winners, and individuals under personal protection. Magnus Mowitz, commanding officer for the police’s special event Nobel, stated that while there may not be concrete threats against the Nobel festivities, the police are constantly evaluating and monitoring the terrorist threat level.
The planning for the security mission has been underway since August, with areas around the concert hall and city hall being cordoned off. The police will also be using drones to closely monitor the festivities. Mowitz emphasized the need for increased preparedness and collaboration with Säpo to ensure the safety of all attendees.
With the level of media interest and external focus on Sweden and Stockholm during the Nobel festivities, the police are taking the security mission even more seriously. The Nobel ceremonies on Sunday will begin with the awarding of the peace prize in Oslo’s city hall, followed by the award ceremony in Stockholm’s concert hall and the banquet in Stockholm City Hall.
The police are working diligently to ensure a safe and secure environment for all Nobel attendees, while also remaining vigilant in the face of the heightened terror threat.