Court Rejects Compensation Claims Against Terror Suspect Bhatti

A Norwegian appeals court has dismissed claims from 115 people seeking compensation from terror suspect Arfan Bhatti. The claimants were present during the terrorist attack in Oslo's city center on June 25, 2022. None suffered physical injuries but sought approximately $32,000 each in compensation. The initial court had already ruled these claims should not be part of the criminal case. Now the appeals court has rejected their challenge to that decision. Bhatti faces charges of involvement in the terrorist attack that shook Norway's capital. His criminal trial began in early September at the Oslo District Court. The court system appears to be separating compensation claims from the main criminal proceedings. This creates a difficult situation for victims seeking both justice and financial recognition for their trauma. Legal experts note this approach prioritizes the criminal case over civil claims. The victims must now consider separate legal action if they wish to pursue compensation.