Tommy Olsen: Etterlyst i Europa – anklaget for menneskesmugling
Norwegian citizen Tommy Olsen, who has documented the movement of refugees at sea in the Aegean Sea since 2017, is now subject to a European arrest warrant issued by Greek authorities. The warrant accuses Olsen of complicity in human smuggling and links to criminal networks, allegations he vehemently denies.
Escalating Legal Pressure
Olsen has been under a Greek arrest order for several years, but This represents the first time it has been extended across all of Europe. This means he could be arrested and extradited to Greece from any country within the European Union. His lawyer, Brynjulf Risnes, stated they have been anticipating this development for some time, but remain unaware of the specific details of the warrant.
Norwegian Police Response
Troms Police District has confirmed receipt of the arrest warrant from Greek authorities. However, in an email to NRK, section leader for special prosecution Trude Skjønsfjell Kvanli stated the case is still under review and further communication will be directed through Olsen and his legal counsel. No further details were provided.
Accusations and Counterclaims
Greek authorities allege Olsen is involved in facilitating human smuggling and has ties to criminal organizations. Olsen counters that the Greek coast guard and authorities are the ones violating regulations, specifically the Geneva Conventions. He points to videos documenting what he calls “pushbacks”—the practice of forcibly returning migrants and refugees to where they came from—which have received international press coverage.
Hellas has previously been convicted of failing to adequately assist refugees, but continues to deny engaging in “pushbacks.” According to a statement from Constantine Danassis, a diplomat at the Greek embassy in Oslo, claims of pushbacks lack documented, credible, or verifiable information.
Olsen’s Defense
Olsen maintains his innocence, stating he has not engaged in any illegal activity. He asserts his work has been focused on documenting the situation of refugees and that he previously collaborated closely with Greek authorities until a change in government in 2019. He believes the charges are politically motivated, an attempt to silence critics of the Greek government’s treatment of refugees.
As a result of the warrant, Olsen has been effectively restricted from leaving Norway. Amnesty International has warned Norwegian authorities against extraditing him to Greece, citing concerns about politically motivated prosecution and the lack of a fair trial guarantee.
Possible Next Steps
The case is now formally with Norwegian police, and Olsen anticipates a resolution. If Norwegian authorities determine there is insufficient evidence, the case could be dismissed. However, it is also possible that Norway could proceed with extradition proceedings, pending legal challenges. The involvement of Europol suggests a coordinated effort between Greece and other European law enforcement agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are “pushbacks”?
According to the source, “pushbacks” involve state actions to forcibly remove refugees and migrants from a territory, preventing access to legal and procedural frameworks for international protection.
Has Olsen been arrested?
No, Olsen has not been arrested. He is currently in Norway and subject to a European arrest warrant, meaning he could be arrested if he travels to another European country.
What is Amnesty International’s position on this case?
Amnesty International has expressed support for Olsen and warned Norwegian authorities against extraditing him to Greece, citing concerns about a politically motivated prosecution and a lack of guarantee for a fair trial.
What role does documentation play in raising awareness about the challenges faced by refugees and migrants?