Words by

Jóhannes Bjarkason

Photo by

Axel Sigurðarson for The Reykjavík Grapevine

During the evacuation of Grindavík moments before the latest volcanic eruption, search and rescue members were threatened at gunpoint, RÚV reports. 

The rescue team members were facilitating the town’s evacuation when they were confronted by a man refusing to leave. The inhabitant aimed his gun, reports Vísir, and was subsequently arrested. The Special Unit of the National Commissioner was dispatched to the scene.

The two search and rescue members received crisis counselling from the Icelandic Red Cross.

According to RÚV, eight people stayed in Grindavík during evacuation. Chief of Suðurnes Police Úlfar Lúðvíksson told media that police did not enforce the removal of townspeople.

Follow the Grapevine’s ongoing volcano coverage.