KUALA LUMPUR: The Foreign Ministry has confirmed the arrest of a Malaysian in Oslo, Norway for alleged espionage, which includes eavesdropping through technical devices.
The ministry in a statement said the Malaysian Embassy in Stockholm was in close contact with the Norwegian authorities for more information on the case.
"The ministry through the Malaysian Embassy in Stockholm confirms a man believed to be a Malaysian citizen has been arrested.
"We will continue to monitor the development of this case and will provide appropriate consular assistance if needed," it said.
Previously, it was reported that a 25-year-old Malaysian student in Norway had been detained by local authorities for alleged espionage, including illegal eavesdropping through various technical devices.
Norwegian police intelligence agency, known as PST has charged the man with spying on the prime minister's office, defence ministry, and other government offices in Oslo, Norway's media reported.
PST told Norwegian Broadcasting (NRK) that the man, who was arrested on Friday (Sept 8), was charged in court on Sunday (Sept 10) with espionage and intelligence operations against the country.
The man, whose identity was not disclosed, has pleaded not guilty in initial police questioning.
Norwegian authorities have also not stated which country the man was allegedly spying for.