Clark Oloffson, who gained infamy in 1973 during a dramatic bank robbery and kidnapping in Stockholm, passed away after a prolonged illness. His involvement in a siege that captivated the world for six days led to hostages developing an affinity for their captors, influencing the psychological phenomenon known as Stockholm syndrome. Initially instigated by Jan-Erik Olsson, Oloffson was brought into the situation when Olsson demanded his presence to ensure the hostages' safety. Notably, one of the captives, Kristin Enmark, expressed her trust in Oloffson and spoke on behalf of the robbers during a tense stand-off with police.
Clark Oloffson, Notorious Figure Behind 'Stockholm Syndrome', Passes Away at 78
Clark Oloffson, Notorious Figure Behind 'Stockholm Syndrome', Passes Away at 78
A prominent criminal whose actions gave rise to the term 'Stockholm syndrome' has died at age 78, according to family reports.
The incident ultimately concluded with a police raid, but not before hostages professed their reluctance to escape for fear of retribution from authorities. The aftermath of the event led to ongoing discussions about the legitimacy of Stockholm syndrome as a psychological condition, a term coined by criminologist Nils Bejerot. Although some experts debated its classification, Enmark dismissed the idea, viewing it as victim-blaming. Oloffson's storied criminal life included multiple imprisonments, with his last release in 2018. In 2022, his character was depicted in the Netflix series Clark, showcasing the enduring fascination surrounding his complex legacy.
