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Man arrested then released in connection with attempted firebomb attack on corona test centre in capital region
Ben Hamilton
March 17th, 2021
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Is attack a reflection of growing tensions in Denmark, or just a lunatic, or both?
Own up! Who dropped the liquid (photo: Pixabay)
The police have confirmed that a man arrested in connection with an attempt to set a coronavirus test centre on fire in Ballerup, a northwestern suburb of Copenhagen, was released yesterday.
On Monday night, one or two suspects attempted to ignite a flammable liquid at the Energivej site.
Looks like arson
Senior police officers described the action as “intentional arson”.
It would appear that as many as four bottles of liquid were emptied, but although some of it was ignited, the fire quickly fizzled out.
Recent rain and sleet had left Denmark pretty damp.
Minister: public must feel safe
“I take the case that the police are now investigating very seriously, and I can understand that the police have tightened security around the test and vaccination centres,” commented the justice minister, Nick Hækkerup
“I am very pleased because we must continue to be able to be confident in making use of the many test centres established all over the country.”
Attack a reflection of tensions
The attack came as tensions continue to rise in Denmark over the continuing corona restrictions.
Across the board, sentences are being doubled if they are perceived to be anti-government and connected to the pandemic, and the weekly Men in Black demonstrations continue to attract large numbers.
Grounds for optimism
Nevertheless, Denmark is slowly reopening, and the reproduction rates of both the regular coronavirus and now dominant British variant remain low compared to several other European countries, which are experiencing a third wave.
The Foreign Ministry has instructed everyone in Denmark to stay home this Easter.
Another round of reopenings is expected following the holiday.
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