Oslo, August 24–25, 2025 – Norway plunged into mourning and reflection following a brutal hate-motivated attack. Tamima Nibras Juhar, a 34-year-old social worker and student, was murdered during the night from Saturday to Sunday at a youth support center (so-called botreningstiltak) in the Kampen district of Oslo.
Who Was Tamima?
Tamima, originally from Ethiopia and a Norwegian citizen, was a dedicated social activist. She studied social development at OsloMet and worked with youth at a facility run by Gemt AS. She was known for her empathy, passion for justice, and commitment to minority integration.
Circumstances of the Tragedy
Around 1:15 a.m. on the night of August 24–25, Tamima was fatally stabbed at her workplace. The suspect—18-year-old resident of the facility, Djordje Wilms—was quickly apprehended. He admitted that the attack was political in nature and motivated by far-right, Islamophobic, and racist ideology. The murder charge was expanded to include terrorism due to the perpetrator’s intent to “spread fear” in society.
Investigators also reported that the perpetrator had planned an attack on a mosque in Hønefoss but did not succeed. He is currently under psychiatric observation, and the court has barred public access to his interrogation.
Social and Family Reactions
Tamima’s funeral was held on August 29 at Alfaset Cemetery, attended by 300–500 people, including politicians and religious leaders. During the ceremony, her dedication and warmth were highlighted, and calls were made for love and solidarity instead of hatred.
Tamima’s friend, Eman Khalif, revealed that Tamima had previously expressed concerns for her safety and had received threats from a resident of the facility.
Controversies and Criticism
The case has drawn attention to the working conditions of social workers. Gemt AS and its practices are under investigation, particularly since Tamima worked alone at night despite warnings and earlier risk signals reported to the Norwegian Police Security Service (PST) as early as February 2024. PST was aware of the suspect’s radicalization but assessed the threat as low.
Social worker organizations (e.g., FO) and trade unions also stress that allowing solo night shifts is a systemic error.
Memory and Visible Tribute
In response to the tragedy, street artist Töddel created a mural in honor of Tamima in Kampen, which received wide public attention.
Summary
The murder of Tamima Nibras Juhar is not only a personal tragedy but also a serious warning sign. It highlights the growing threat of extremism, gaps in risk assessment, and insufficient systemic safeguards. Tamima’s memory—as a woman dedicated to integration and justice—should inspire reflection and actions that ensure the safety of social workers and minority communities.
Sources:
- Aftenposten – Tamima Nibras Juhar (34) ble drept på Kampen i Oslo
- VG – Et farvel med Tamima: – Hun tilhører hele Norge
- VG – Drapet på Kampen: Skal undersøke om arbeidsgiver brøt loven
- VG – Tamima hadde meldt fra om trusler
- VG – Drapet på Kampen: PST visste om 18-åringens radikalisering
- Avisa Oslo – Tamima var norsk statsborger og muslim
- Khrono – Studenten Tamima Nibras Juhar ble drept på Kampen
- News in English – Norway shaken by new terrorist attack
- Ground News – Tamima Nibras Juhar is honored with street art by Töddel
- Dawn – Norway shaken by new terrorist attack
- Wikipedia – Killing of Tamima Nibras Juhar
