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Reuters
Sweden Raises Terror Alert to Second Highest Level Amid Islamist Threats
Director General of Swedish Security Service Makes Decision
Al-Qaeda and Other Islamist Groups Pose Risks
August 17, 2023 - STOCKHOLM (Reuters) - Sweden has elevated its terrorist alert level to the second highest due to increased threats from Islamist groups, including al-Qaeda, the Swedish Security Service announced on Thursday. The decision was made by Anders Thornberg, Director General of the Swedish Security Service (SAPO). According to Thornberg, the heightened alert level reflects "a changed situation in Sweden due to threats from violent extremism inspired by Islamist ideology."Sweden's terror alert system has five levels, with 1 indicating the lowest threat and 5 indicating the highest. The current alert level, 3, is the second highest and signifies a "heightened threat," indicating that an attack may be likely. The last time Sweden was at this alert level was in 2010, following a suicide bombing in Stockholm.
SAPO has been closely monitoring Islamist groups in Sweden and abroad, and recently identified increased activity and recruitment efforts by al-Qaeda and other extremist organizations. The agency has warned that these groups pose a significant threat to Sweden's security.
The heightened alert level comes amid heightened tensions in Europe following a series of terrorist attacks across the continent. Last month, a deadly attack in Norway targeted the city of Oslo, leaving several people dead and injured.
The Swedish government has urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. SAPO has also increased its surveillance and intelligence gathering efforts to prevent any potential attacks.
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