The University of Gothenburg has been descended on by police.
18:33, Fri, Jan 30, 2026 Updated: 18:33, Fri, Jan 30, 2026
University of Gothenburg (Image: Getty)
Police have descended on the University of Gothenburg after "loud bangs" were heard. Multiple emergency services have been deployed.
According to SVT, eight ambulances and several police vehicles are at the scene. Freelance photographer Adam Nilsson told the broadcaster that witnesses reported hearing several loud bangs inside one of the university buildings, which is now being searched by a police task force.
The University of Gothenburg has experienced isolated safety incidents in the past. One notable event occurred in September 2021, when an explosion took place on Övre Husargatan, near the Department of Journalism, Media and Communication (JMG).
At the time, university officials quickly reassured students and staff that there was no danger to anyone on campus. Monica Löfgren Nilsson, head of the department, stated: “There are no indications that there is any danger of being in the department's premises and it does not affect the plans for returning to teaching on campus tomorrow.”
The University of Gothenburg is one of Sweden’s largest and most prestigious universities, known for its broad academic profile and strong links to society. Founded in 1891, the university has grown into a major centre for education and research, with around 38,000 students and more than 6,000 staff.
Unlike many campuses that are concentrated in one area, the University of Gothenburg is integrated into the city itself. Its buildings are spread across central Gothenburg, giving students and staff close access to cultural institutions, public transport and city life.
The university offers a wide range of programmes and courses across eight faculties, covering subjects such as social sciences, humanities, education, natural sciences, IT, fine and performing arts, business, economics and law.
The latest news from around the world Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Information given to TV4 Nyheterna suggests that the building was occupied at the time of the incident. Police spokesperson Jennifer Last told newspaper Göteborgs-Posten (GP) that there were currently no reports of anyone being injured.
“This is an ongoing police operation and that’s all I can say at the moment,” she said. “We are on site investigating what may or may not have happened. I can’t say whether people should be worried or not.”
GP reports that police activity is focused around the Pedagogen building, which houses the Faculty of Educational Sciences.
In a statement on its website, police said: “Intensive work to search the building has been ongoing and the entire building has now been searched. At present, there are no reports of personal injuries and we are continuing to investigate what may have exploded.”
2 weeks ago
15
English (US) · 