Norwegian police uncover organised crime behind northern lights tours

Norwegian authorities have deported 42 foreign nationals involved in illegal northern lights tours, with police suspecting the operations are linked to organised crime networks controlled from abroad, national broadcaster NRK reports.

The crackdown follows a surge in demand for northern lights excursions in northern Norway, which has created opportunities for unscrupulous operators offering guide services. Authorities warn the illegal activities distort fair competition and risk damaging the region’s reputation as a tourist destination. The issue has already drawn international attention, including reports by German broadcaster ARD.

In recent months, police in Nordland county have deported 28 foreign nationals, while 14 more were expelled in Troms county during inspections targeting illegal passenger transport. Gudjon Omar Gudjonson, head of Nordland police’s border and immigration unit, told NRK that foreign organisations and individuals are profiting from the scheme, making it harder to dismantle.

Evidence suggests drivers actively collaborate to avoid detection, including switching from nine-seater vans to smaller cars and instructing passengers to claim they are private groups rather than paying customers. Many tourists unknowingly purchase package tours from their home countries, assuming they are legitimate, only to find drivers lack licences, work permits, or insurance.

Norwegian labour authorities have intensified monitoring this winter to curb illegal transport operations. Similar issues have been reported in Finland, where popular northern lights viewing spots like Norvajärvi near Rovaniemi have gained a reputation for poor conditions.