A Norwegian private investigator currently facing multiple criminal charges allegedly fabricated hitman threats against a mother of three during a bitter family court dispute. Thomas Øien, who operated under the business name Wydal, created false narratives about contract killers to bill clients hundreds of thousands of kroner while under police investigation in two separate districts.
The case reveals serious gaps in Norway's oversight of private investigation services. Øien continued operating despite being under investigation by both South-East and Oslo police districts simultaneously. He allegedly created elaborate scenarios where clients faced imaginary threats, then charged substantial fees for "protection" and "investigation" services.
In one disturbing pattern, Øien allegedly targeted a mother of three during her custody battle with her ex-husband. He presented fabricated evidence suggesting her former partner had hired hitmen, generating invoices totaling 767,000 Norwegian kroner for his services. This occurred while the investigator was already under police scrutiny for other alleged crimes.
The timeline reveals concerning delays in police response. South-East police district received complaints about Øien's activities in October, but took months to begin proper investigation. During this period, he allegedly escalated his activities, including planting hidden cameras in a rape victim's apartment while working for the man accused of assaulting her.
Police coordination between districts appears to have been inadequate. While Oslo police were building their case against Øien for identity theft, online threats, and fraud, he was simultaneously operating the hitman threat scheme in another jurisdiction. This lack of communication allowed his activities to continue unchecked for months.
Defense attorney Alexander Greaker criticized media coverage of the case, stating his client's mental health concerns should limit public discussion. Greaker argued that pretrial publicity could prejudice future court proceedings. Øien has denied all criminal charges across multiple cases.
The investigator has since changed both his business and personal names. Wydal now operates as Crozzer, while Øien has legally become Pontus Axel Wachtmeister. His website continues offering investigation services, claiming experience since 2005 despite recent revelations about his operation.
Police officials acknowledge capacity challenges affected their response times. "Reviewing large amounts of investigative material while conducting active investigation steps has taken considerable time," said South-East police district prosecutor Kjell Johan Abrahamsen. The case highlights systemic issues in monitoring private investigators who operate across multiple jurisdictions.
Legal experts note this case may prompt reforms in Norway's regulation of private investigation services. The ability to continue operating while under multiple criminal investigations raises questions about oversight mechanisms and inter-district police coordination.
Court proceedings for several of Øien's cases are scheduled for next year. Meanwhile, his website remains active, offering investigation services to new clients despite the serious allegations pending against him.