Counter intelligence in Norway

However, many of these officers are in this country legally and function as a liaison between Norway and their respective home countries in the prevention of crimes such as terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

But according to PST, other intelligence officers are in Norway on false pretences – for example in the guise of diplomats, journalists or business people. Most often they are here to lead others astray, to gather information, to exert influence, to recruit, to undermine and at worst to carry out sabotage activities for the benefit of a foreign state – at the expense of Norway.

PST says several factors make Norway interesting to foreign intelligence services. Norway manages large natural resources, is technologically far advanced in various areas, engages in international activities – political, economic and military – and is also a refuge for people who have sought protection from areas of conflict.

PST has experienced that all these factors can attract attention from the intelligence services of other countries. The intelligence threat has been assessed as high throughout 2009. The country’s interests and Norwegian players abroad have also been exposed to intelligence activities during the year, PST states in its report.

(NRK/Press release)

Rolleiv Solholm

Wednesday, 17 March 2010 10:04