Emergency alert issued after explosion rocks central Oslo

Alsharq Tribune-AFP 

Norwegian police issued an emergency alert Tuesday evening after an explosion was reported in Oslo, urging residents in the area to stay away from windows and asking the public not to visit the site.

The incident was first reported around 20:43 local time near Bislett in central Oslo. Witnesses described hearing a "big bang" and said a hooded man was seen running from the area shortly after the blast, Norwegian broadcaster NRK reported.

Police said unexploded explosive material was found at the scene and established a wide cordon while bomb technicians and other emergency crews worked on site. Tram services were disrupted and traffic was diverted as nearby streets were closed.

Authorities said the situation remained unclear, with no immediate information on casualties or damage.