Police in Skien have released four of five men suspected of attempted murder following a violent incident in the city center. The decision came after authorities determined insufficient grounds to request custody for the suspects.
Officials confirmed the men faced preliminary charges of attempted murder or complicity in attempted murder. A senior police inspector stated these charges could be reduced as the investigation progresses.
The case began Sunday evening when emergency services responded to reports of a man found with stab wounds on a street in central Skien. Police quickly apprehended five suspects near the crime scene at the residence of an 18-year-old man.
Investigators have conducted multiple searches in the area, seizing several knives as evidence. Authorities have not confirmed whether the weapon used in the attack is among the confiscated items. Police declined to comment on statements made during suspect interrogations.
The victim has been discharged from hospital after receiving treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. Both the injured man and the one remaining suspect in custody will undergo further questioning on Tuesday.
Norwegian legal experts note that pretrial detention requires strong evidence of flight risk or potential interference with the investigation. The decision to release suspects suggests police may need more time to build their case or that evidence against some individuals appears weaker than initially thought.
This case highlights Norway's balanced approach to criminal justice, where suspects enjoy presumption of innocence while investigations continue. The system aims to protect individual rights without compromising public safety.
Police are also examining possible connections between the suspects and other violent incidents reported in Skien on the same day. The broader investigation seeks to determine whether this was an isolated event or part of larger criminal activity in the Telemark region.
Local residents have expressed concern about violent crime in the city center. Community leaders are calling for increased police presence and preventive measures.
The case continues to develop as forensic analysis of evidence proceeds. Police expect to provide further updates following Tuesday's interrogations and additional investigative work.