Norway Targets Criminal Wealth as Police Map 60 Networks

A threat assessment published by Øst Police District on October 29 describes networks operating across some of Norway’s busiest transport corridors. The district includes Oslo Airport Gardermoen and the Svinesund and Ørje crossings on the Swedish border.

Police say these routes are used for trafficking people and smuggling drugs, firearms and cash. The networks range from international organisations and professional facilitators to local youth groups.

The figure of approximately 60 covers groups active in the district or with members living there. Police stress that the number changes as alliances shift and organisations split or emerge.

Joakim Dyrdal, who heads the district’s joint unit for prevention, investigation and intelligence, said developments at these entry points have consequences throughout Norway.

The assessment highlights trafficking, violence commissioned for payment, radicalisation online and violent digital communities. It also identifies vulnerable children and young people as a particular concern.

Following the money

In a separate announcement on October 30, Norway’s Justice and Public Security Ministry proposed procedural rules intended to make confiscation of criminal assets more effective.

The proposal follows an independent confiscation framework previously endorsed by parliament. It addresses cases where ownership of assets is unclear and allows simplified proceedings where legal safeguards permit.

Justice Minister Astri Aas-Hansen said she expects annual confiscation to double. Parliamentary consideration of the procedural bill is the next step towards bringing the new arrangement into operation.

The police assessment also calls for cooperation with municipalities, public agencies, businesses and voluntary organisations. Its emphasis is on identifying risks early and protecting people who criminal networks can recruit or exploit.