Andrey Medvedev: Russian Wagner mercenary who fled to Norway arrested

A former Russian paramilitary commander who claimed asylum in Norway earlier this month has been arrested by police.

Andrey Medvedev is being held under the Immigration Act, police spokesperson Jon Andreas Johansen told the BBC.

His lawyer, Brynjulf Risnes, told the BBC that the 26-year-old had been moved to a detention centre in the Oslo area.

Mr Medvedev, who crossed into Norway from Russia's far north two weeks ago, is believed to be the first member of the Wagner Group to defect to the West.

The mercenary group - which is believed to have close ties to the Kremlin - has been used in many Russian operations. UK officials estimate it makes up 10% of Moscow's forces in Ukraine.

The move came after "police concluded his situation was very dangerous," Mr Risnes told the BBC. "This is what everyone wanted to avoid, but we are looking for solutions."

Previously, he had been staying at a safe house.

Mr Medvedev's arrest meant he would be under increased security, the lawyer added. But he emphasised that the former mercenary was still being treated as a witness.