Rinson Jose, a 37-year-old Norwegian citizen originally from Wayanad, Kerala, has emerged as a significant figure in the investigation into recent pager blasts that targeted Hezbollah operatives in Lebanon. The blasts, which occurred on September 17, resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals and left thousands injured.
Reports indicate that Jose’s company, Norta Global Ltd., registered in Sofia, Bulgaria, is being scrutinized for its potential role in supplying the pagers used in the attacks. Initial findings suggested that these devices had been modified by the Israeli intelligence agency, Mossad, to conceal explosives.
The pagers in question were manufactured by a Taiwan-based firm, Gold Apollo. However, the company has stated that the specific model implicated in the blasts, the AR-924, was actually produced by BAC Consulting KFT, a Budapest-based firm authorized to use Gold Apollo’s trademark.
Just two days after the explosions, Bulgaria’s state security agency DANS initiated an investigation, announcing coordination with the interior ministry to probe Norta Global Ltd.’s involvement. However, DANS later clarified that the pagers used in the attacks were neither imported nor exported through Bulgaria, asserting that no transactions linked to terrorism financing were identified involving the company or its owner.
The Norwegian police have also opened a preliminary investigation into the matter, highlighting the gravity of the situation surrounding Jose.
Background and Relatives’ Statements
Jose moved to Norway for higher studies a few years ago and has since built a life there, working for nearly five years in digital customer support at Norwegian press group DN Media. His relatives expressed concern over his well-being, noting that they had lost contact with him for three days amid the unfolding events. “He is a straightforward person, and we trust him fully. He will not be part of any wrongdoing. He may have been trapped in these blasts,” said Thankachen, a relative.
As authorities continue to investigate the complex web of international connections surrounding the case, the focus remains on clarifying Jose’s potential involvement and ensuring his safety.
Sources By Agencies
