BREAKING NEWS: A Norwegian court has just confirmed the conviction of 48-year-old Arfan Bhatti for orchestrating the horrific 2022 terrorist attack targeting Oslo’s LGBTIQA+ community. The court sentenced him to 30 years in prison, marking a significant legal milestone in the aftermath of the attack that shook the nation.
The deadly incident unfolded on June 25, 2022, when Zaniar Matapour, a lone gunman originally from Iran, opened fire at the London Pub, a central gathering place for the LGBTIQA+ community, just before Oslo’s Pride celebrations. The attack resulted in two fatalities and left eight others injured from gunfire, with many more suffering injuries in the ensuing chaos.
Authorities report that despite being in Pakistan at the time of the attack, Bhatti was instrumental in planning the violence. He was extradited to Norway in 2024 and has faced trial since then. His lawyers have already indicated an intention to appeal the verdict, questioning the evidence linking him to the attack.
This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTIQA+ community in Norway and the broader implications of terrorism on society. Bhatti, who has a lengthy criminal history and previous terrorism-related offenses, was born and raised in Oslo to parents from Pakistan, spending significant time in both Norway and Pakistan throughout his life.
The court’s decision underscores the severity of the crime and aims to deliver justice to the victims and their families. The ruling also serves as a stark reminder of the threats faced by marginalized communities worldwide.
As the legal process continues, the nation will be watching closely for any developments regarding Bhatti’s appeal and the implications it may have on future terrorism cases in Norway.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation develops.
