Arfan Bhatti has been sentenced to 30 years of preventive detention, known as 'forvaring', for a terror attack. The sentence follows a high-profile case that has dominated Norwegian headlines and public discourse.
Forvaring is Norway's most severe criminal penalty, reserved for individuals deemed a continued danger to society. It's an indefinite sentence where a minimum term is set, but release is contingent on a court finding the individual is no longer a threat. The 30-year minimum term reflects the gravity of the offense.
The case has sparked significant public interest, with Bhatti's name generating over two thousand searches in Norway following the sentencing announcement. This level of attention underscores the case's impact on the national consciousness.
Norwegian counter-terrorism legislation has been strengthened in recent years, particularly following earlier attacks on the country. Sentences of this severity are applied in cases where the court assesses an extreme and ongoing risk from the convicted individual.
The sentencing concludes a major legal proceeding for Norwegian authorities. The case was handled within the standard Norwegian judicial framework, which includes both district courts and appeals processes.