The objective of PST’s counter terrorism work is both the prevention of terrorist acts being planned and perpetrated in Norway, as well as the prevention of Norway being used as a staging post for planning or peretrating terrorist acts in other parts of the world.
Terrorism is a very serious offence, which has an international dimension in the vast majority of cases. Terrorist acts mainly affect civilians – i.e. ”soft targets”. Additionally, the effects of terrorism extend beyond injuries and the loss of human life, by creating a climate of fear and insecurity.
Our role in counter terrorism
In Norway the police are the ones responsible for terrorism preparedness and counter terrorism in peacetime. PST is responsible for preventative counter terrorism, and for carrying out covert investigations. The rest of the police service is responsible for putting in place the security measures that are necessary for our national preparedness, and, where necessary, for conducting overt investigations of circumstances connected to terrorist activities. If requested to do so, PST may render specialist support to the rest of the police in this area. In a case in which the Norwegian Armed Forces participate in counter-terrorism activities in peacetime, e.g. by securing public buildings, the military personnel work under the direction of the police.
PST's main responsibility is the prevention of terrorism
PST's counter terrorism work concentrates mainly on individuals with possible connections to terrorist networks, and investigating whether plans are being made, or support provided for carrying out acts of terror. In this work, we utilise all powers available under Norwegian law. The objective is to intercept plans to commit acts of terrorism well before they can be carried out.