Kathrine Frich
The man brought one kilogram of TATP, a highly unstable explosive also known as “Mother of Satan.”
A 38-year-old Russian man is now facing trial after allegedly bringing explosives into Billund Airport and causing a full evacuation.
The dramatic incident unfolded in April last year and now, the legal aftermath has begun in Denmark.
Billund Airport Shut Down for Nine Hours
On April 20, 2024, Denmark’s second-largest airport was evacuated.
Flights were suspended for nine hours after a suspicious backpack was handed in at the airport’s police station.
Nearly 10,000 travelers had their journeys disrupted due to what turned out to be a bomb threat.
One Kilo of ‘Mother of Satan’ Explosives
According to prosecutors, the man brought one kilogram of TATP, a highly unstable explosive also known as “Mother of Satan.”
He entered the police station around 10:20 AM and allegedly threw the backpack onto a chair before declaring:
“Bomb, bomb. Explosives in the bag.”
Putin Name-Dropped in Bomb Threat
Prosecutors say the man added another chilling line:
“I work for Russia. I work for Putin.”
Authorities have not confirmed whether the claim has any basis in fact. But the statement has raised questions about possible political motives.
Earlier That Morning: Explosion Outside Legoland
Hours before the airport incident, the man reportedly tried to blow up an ATM outside Legoland, just a few miles from the airport.
There were two explosions, according to the indictment, but he failed to get any cash from the machine.
Arrest and Secret Court Hearing
The man was arrested shortly after entering the police station.
He was quickly remanded into custody, but the initial court hearing took place behind double-locked doors, a rare move in Denmark.
Police said secrecy was needed to protect the investigation.
Three Kilos of Explosives in Total
The formal charges include making, storing, and transporting approximately three kilos of explosives in total.
He’s also charged with causing major disruption to airport traffic and wasting significant police and emergency resources.
935,000 Kroner in Damages
Billund Airport and nine airlines are said to have lost at least 935,000 kroner, about $135,000 USD, due to the shutdown.
This figure may rise depending on how the trial unfolds.
The Trial Begins and Could Last Weeks
The man’s defense lawyer says he partially admits guilt, but hasn’t clarified what he denies.
The trial opened in Kolding District Court and is expected to last nine days. A verdict is likely in mid-September.
