Ferry services between Lilla Bommen and Klippan in Gothenburg remain suspended through Sunday morning after crew members reported being targeted with green laser beams on Saturday evening. The incident occurred around 5 PM, with authorities determining the laser originated from the Karlatornet skyscraper complex.
No injuries resulted from the attack, but ferry operator Transdev immediately suspended all crossings for safety reasons. The company made this decision to protect both passengers and crew members from potential vision impairment or distraction that could lead to accidents.
Police confirmed receiving reports about the laser incident but have not launched a formal investigation. A police spokesperson explained they directed the ferry company to file a report through the non-emergency line 114 14 rather than opening an immediate case. The reasoning behind this procedural decision remains unclear to the public.
Later Saturday evening, police received additional calls reporting laser beams being directed from Karlatornet toward both drivers and pedestrians in the area. Officers visited the skyscraper to investigate but found no suspects during their initial search.
Laser attacks on transportation systems represent a growing concern across Nordic countries. Sweden's Transport Administration has documented increasing incidents targeting aircraft, trains, and now maritime vessels. These attacks carry serious consequences under Swedish law, with penalties including substantial fines and potential imprisonment for endangering public transport.
Gothenburg's ferry system serves as a crucial transportation link between the city center and the Klippan cultural district. The suspension disrupts daily commutes and tourist access to popular attractions, including the Maritime Museum and opera house. Similar laser incidents have previously caused temporary closures of ferry routes in Stockholm and Malmö.
The timing creates particular inconvenience for weekend travelers and cultural event attendees. Local authorities face mounting pressure to address security gaps around high-rise buildings overlooking transportation corridors. This incident highlights the vulnerability of urban transit systems to relatively simple technological threats.
Police continue monitoring the situation while transportation officials assess when normal service can safely resume. The ongoing suspension demonstrates how individual reckless actions can disrupt essential public services affecting thousands of daily passengers.