Oslo police report rise in crime among young girls

Oslo police have raised concerns over a nearly 6 percent increase in recorded crime among girls aged 10–17 last year, warning that hidden figures may be even higher, Dagbladet reports.

The police report highlights that girls are less visible both in crime statistics and to support systems designed to detect early signs of criminal behaviour. This lack of visibility increases the risk that problems will escalate before interventions can take place.

While overall drug-related offences among girls remain low, authorities express significant concern over rising substance abuse, which they link to underlying social and psychological challenges. “When girls are institutionalised—whether placed in care or detained—their mental health is often far worse than that of boys, requiring entirely different support and staff expertise,” the report states.

Girls in criminal environments face a higher risk of sexual violence, further exacerbating mental health issues and marginalisation. Many have already experienced abuse or assault earlier in life, according to the findings.

Vulnerability to recruitment

Police also warn about the targeted recruitment of young people into criminal networks. Vulnerable youths—particularly those with weak school attachment, unstable home lives, or histories of violence—are at greater risk of being manipulated. Criminal groups often exploit these individuals by offering a false sense of belonging or financial rewards that are rarely delivered.

“The stress these children endure is extremely damaging to adolescent brain development, and the insecurity they experience can have lasting psychological effects,” the report notes. Police have prioritised this group due to the severe long-term consequences of their exploitation.

Girls were found to move more frequently across district borders and between school networks than boys, making them harder to track. While violent crime reports have risen overall, shoplifting remains the most common offence among girls.