Oslo Mayor Warns of Rising Drug Smuggling Threats

The mayor of Oslo, Marianne Lindboe, has raised alarms about an uptick in drug smuggling activities targeting the Norwegian capital, which is increasingly seen as a gateway to Europe for criminal organizations. In an interview with NRK, Lindboe noted that Oslo's port is becoming a favored entry point for hardened gangs, particularly as authorities enhance security measures at major ports like Antwerp. She emphasized that the port of Oslo is inadequately protected, making it vulnerable to these illicit operations. Recent reports from Antwerp, a notorious hub for drug trafficking, indicate a significant drop in cocaine seizures, attributed to heightened policing efforts. As a result, criminal gangs are reportedly shifting their routes to evade detection, with Oslo emerging as a potential alternative. Customs officials have expressed concerns that the handheld scanners currently in use are less effective, further complicating their ability to intercept illegal shipments. Union leader Karin Tanderø Schaug described the situation as "critical," urging for reinforced customs operations in Norway. She highlighted that Norway ranks third in Europe for cocaine consumption among young adults, underscoring the urgency of addressing organized crime and drug trafficking. Schaug called for a coordinated effort across Europe to combat this growing threat. In response to these challenges, the Norwegian government has proposed increased funding for customs services to bolster their fight against drug trafficking. The customs agency has acknowledged the need for enhanced scanning capabilities at Oslo's ports to effectively disrupt the flow of illegal drugs into the country.