Investigation into explosion on Rymarksvej links arson charges to rising antisemitism in Denmark

The investigation into the explosion at a residential building on Rymarksvej early Monday morning remains confidential, with a 17-year-old boy currently in custody on charges of attempted arson. Authorities are not providing details, as the case is taking place behind closed doors. However, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen have linked this incident to recent attacks on Jewish targets in Denmark.

During an interview with TV2’s “Go’aften Live” in front of the Copenhagen synagogue, Frederiksen highlighted the terror threat in Denmark, referencing a recent arson against a Jewish woman and a grenade attack near the Israeli embassy. “It is completely unacceptable to bring a conflict from the Middle East into our streets,” she stated, emphasizing her concern over rising hatred and antisemitism.

Charges related to terrorism have been filed in the earlier incidents. The prosecutor, Mads Bjerg Olesen, refused to comment on the ongoing investigation of the 17-year-old. When asked if there was a connection between the cases, he stated, “We are investigating broadly, including whether it could be classified as terrorism.”

Copenhagen Police and PET (the Danish Security and Intelligence Service) declined to comment further on the situation. The 17-year-old has been remanded for four weeks but denies the allegations. Additionally, a 12-year-old boy has been detained but cannot be imprisoned due to his age, as he is below the legal age for criminal responsibility.

The explosion was reportedly caused by a device containing unknown explosives, posing significant danger to residents, though no injuries occurred.