The Dutch steam trawler Voorbode was a fishing vessel, until it was confiscated by the Germans during World War II and used for military transport. In April 1944, it was on its way from Oslo to Kirkenes when it had mechanical problems, forcing it to seek repairs in Bergen, Norway. The ship was allowed to enter Bergen harbour loaded with 124,000 kg (273,000 lb) of explosives, even though it did not satisfy security regulations and should not have been allowed into a major city with this cargo.