Narvik school group found safe after rescue operation

A rescue operation launched Thursday morning for a school group in Narvik has been called off after contact was established with the students, Norwegian police confirmed.

The operation involved emergency services, the Red Cross, and local authorities after concerns were raised over a class of 30 students and two teachers on an outdoor trip. According to Dagbladet, the group had been staying in cabins as part of an annual excursion planned from Tuesday to Thursday.

Police initially reported at 08:12 that they were unable to reach the group, prompting a response from the fire department, volunteers, and the Main Rescue Centre for Northern Norway. The Red Cross deployed volunteers to the area, while Nordland County Municipality activated a crisis team.

Anna Brandal, communications chief for Nordland County, told Dagbladet that all parents had been informed of the situation. The group was equipped with a satellite phone, though it remained unclear when last contact was made.

The operation was stood down after Red Cross personnel confirmed the students were safe and required no further assistance.