Norwegian Police Release Identity of Slain Afghan in Bergen at Wife's Request

Norwegian police have released the identity and photo of Mohammad Taariq Waziri, an Afghan man killed on Feb. 8 outside his home in the Arena area of Bergen. His wife was injured in the targeted attack, which police described as deliberate, noting that Waziri and the assailant knew each other.

The 28-year-old's military background in Afghanistan has come under scrutiny during the investigation. A relative told Afghanistan International that Waziri had no personal enmities, while another source said he played a key role in counterterrorism operations in Kabul, including against Haqqani network fighters during the 2018 Intercontinental Hotel attack.

Police arrested a man around 30 years old, an Afghan resident of Bergen, initially questioned as a witness. Prosecutor Inger Lise Hovland said Wednesday that new evidence — including the suspect's movements, familiarity with the victim and other materials — led to his charging with murder. The suspect denies the allegations and has no prior criminal record, police said. Hovland declined to provide further details on the evidence.

The motive remains unclear as investigations continue. Hasht-e Subh noted similar violent attacks on Afghan refugees in various countries have heightened sensitivities among the community. The killing has received wide coverage in Norwegian media.