The Norwegian Foreign Ministry expelled the Russian diplomat after the arrest of a Norwegian citizen suspected of spying.

Norwegian police on August 17 said the Norwegian man was suspected of providing information illegally to a Russian diplomat, who they believe was an intelligence officer.

Norwegian Foreign Ministry spokesman Trude Maaseide told reporters in Oslo today that the aforementioned diplomat works in the commercial department of the Russian Embassy in Oslo.

"He acted inconsistent with his role and status as a diplomat," Maaseide said.

Risk management and quality assurance consulting firm DNV GL said yesterday the Norwegian suspect works at its oil and gas unit, specializing in materials technology and 3D printing.