Explosion at Estonia’s largest mall injures one, terrorism ruled out

An explosion occurred in a trash bin at Ülemiste, Estonia’s largest shopping center, injuring a nearby employee, ERR reports.

The victim was hospitalised, but authorities said their life is not in danger.

The Security Police Department has opened a criminal case and ruled out terrorism. “Nothing indicates a link to extremism. The threat level has not increased; this was an isolated incident,” said Margus Palloson, head of the department.

Rescue services inspected all trash bins inside the shopping centre and confirmed that no other devices were present. No additional threats were identified.

Police and Border Guard Board Director General Egert Belitšev said the incident, which occurred ahead of the holiday weekend, caused public concern. As a precaution, police will increase their presence in crowded public places during the holidays.

“There is no reason for people to change their plans,” Belitšev emphasised.

The investigation is ongoing, and police have issued guidance to security services at shopping centres across the country.

By Khagan Isayev