Norway is, in general, a pretty peaceful place. Consider for a moment that their entire police force fired two bullets the whole of 2014 – that should give you some kind of idea as to just how much of a law abiding country they are.

It appears old habits die hard, however, with a South African diplomat standing accused of a horrible drink-driving accident in Norway that is souring relations between the two countries. TimesLive reports:

The diplomat, whose name and position at the South African embassy in Oslo the government refuses to divulge, seriously injured a paramedic when he allegedly tried to flee the police in a car chase.

It’s the second time, according to Norwegian police, the 50-year-old has been caught for drunk driving.

The chase occurred in Oslo’s Bygdoy Alle on Saturday night when police became suspicious of the diplomat’s erratic driving. They attempted to pull him over but he sped off into oncoming traffic.

Police gave chase and the diplomat crashed head-on into the paramedic, who was responding to another emergency.

Trapped inside her vehicle, her hip broken and with severe internal injuries, the paramedic had to be cut out of the wreckage.

The diplomat refused to obey police instructions,using his diplomatic immunity to prevent being breathalysed. His refusal, which saw South African embassy staff removing him from the scene, threatens to blow up into a diplomatic row.

Way to fly the flag champ, with Norwegian authorities fuming at SA’s refusal to rescind the driver’s diplomatic immunity. Of course if you believe our top brass everyone is playing ball:

South Africa’s ambassador to Norway, Queen Ann Zondo, told online newspaper News In English she was awaiting instructions from the South African government.

Nelson Kgwete, Department of International Relations and Co-operation spokesman, said: “The diplomat, who was also injured in the accident and hospitalised, is co-operating with the police.”

It appears it is far easier to sweep the transgressions of politicians under the carpet here at home than in other countries around the world. Play ball guys, let’s see someone held accountable for their actions.

[source:timeslive]