A Gothenburg tram driver faced a dangerous laser attack during Thursday evening operations. The incident occurred around 7:30 PM on Line 11 when an unidentified person directed a green laser at the vehicle. Public transport authority Västtrafik immediately suspended multiple services following the security threat.
Three tram lines experienced significant disruptions. Line 2 between Marklandsgatan and Axel Dahlströms torg, Line 9 between Sannaplan and Kungssten, and Line 11 between Nya Varvsallén and Saltholmen all faced cancellations. Services gradually resumed before 9:00 PM after authorities assessed the situation.
Police confirmed they received a formal report about the laser incident. Officers did not dispatch patrol units to the scene. A police spokesperson stated the driver appeared unharmed and continued operating the tram after the attack.
This laser incident represents part of a concerning pattern in the Gothenburg region. Similar attacks have targeted ferry services throughout the autumn season. Just two weeks earlier, Västtrafik suspended ferry operations after crew members faced green laser attacks.
Police also addressed unrelated snowball throwing incidents occurring on Thursday afternoon. Youth reportedly targeted cars, trams, cyclists, and pedestrians with snowballs. Authorities emphasized that while snowball throwing might seem harmless, directing projectiles at traffic creates serious accident risks and could lead to criminal charges.
Laser attacks on transportation systems pose genuine safety concerns across Sweden. The country's transport infrastructure faces increasing challenges from such interference. These incidents highlight vulnerabilities in public transportation security that require attention from both authorities and the public.
Sweden maintains strict regulations regarding laser device usage and transportation safety. The recurring nature of these attacks suggests either insufficient enforcement or growing disregard for public safety protocols. Transportation workers deserve protection from such dangerous interference during their duties.
International readers should understand that Nordic countries typically experience high levels of public safety and transportation reliability. These laser incidents represent unusual disruptions to Sweden's normally efficient public transport systems. The situation warrants monitoring as authorities work to prevent future occurrences.