A man in his early 20s has been arrested in connection with a series of sexually motivated assaults targeting women across Oslo, Asker and Bærum. The suspect, a Norwegian citizen registered in Oslo, was apprehended on Saturday after police utilized mobile location data and modus descriptions to track him.
Scope of the Investigation
Police are currently investigating the man’s involvement in approximately six assaults. While a full overview is still being established, authorities have already linked him to attacks on three women in Asker and Bærum, as well as an incident in Ammerud, Oslo.
A further attack is linked to Spikkestad in Asker, which occurred on April 13. In that instance, the suspect allegedly followed a woman in her 40s and subjected her to a chokehold before she managed to break free.
Victims and Target Areas
The attacks have targeted women of various ages. In the Rykkinn area of Bærum, victims included a 93-year-old woman assaulted on Thursday and an 82-year-old woman attacked on March 28.
Other reported victims include a woman in her 70s in Hyggen, Asker, and a woman in her 30s in Ammerud, Oslo. The Ammerud case is specifically being investigated as an attempted assault rape.
Suspect Profile and Legal Status
Politiadvokat Ellen Alvilde Arge stated that the suspect was identified through a combination of witness descriptions and his prior history with police regarding similar matters. Although he has previous convictions, they were not for similar offenses.
The suspect is currently charged with aggravated bodily violation. However, police have not ruled out the possibility that these charges could change as the investigation progresses. The suspect has declined to provide a statement, and his lawyer, Brit Kjelleberg, has not yet spoken with him.
Potential Next Steps
The suspect is currently in custody and is expected to be presented for remand in custody on Monday. As investigators review additional tips received during the search, the man may be charged in further cases.
Police are likewise working to determine why the suspect, an Oslo resident, traveled to Asker and Bærum, though they believe family relations in the area may be a factor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many assaults is the suspect linked to?
Police are currently investigating approximately six assaults, though they are still establishing a complete overview of all cases.
What is the current legal charge against the man?
The man is currently charged with aggravated bodily violation, though police have indicated that this charge could change.
How did the police locate and arrest the suspect?
Authorities used a combination of modus descriptions from victims and witnesses, the suspect’s previous history, and mobile location data to track and arrest him.
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