Norwegian police report widespread disturbances as graduation celebrations spiral

Police across Norway responded to dozens of incidents overnight as graduation celebrations—known locally as russefeiring—escalated into public disturbances, excessive noise complaints, and reports of prearranged fights between student groups.

In Trøndelag, officers handled 49 calls related to intoxication, public disorder, and noise violations, with 25 of those directly tied to russ (graduating high school seniors) and their chartered buses, according to operations manager Christopher James White. Three individuals were detained for extreme intoxication, while multiple buses received orders to lower music volumes. “We’ve addressed as many incidents as capacity allowed,” White stated.

Near Oslo, over 40 out-of-town russebuss (decorated party buses) were banned from Ullensaker municipality for 48 hours after residents near Gardermoen reported deafening music that triggered car alarms. “None of the buses were local, so all were ordered to leave,” said Kjetil Elnan Ringseth of Øst police district. A property owner later blocked the site with gravel mounds to prevent further gatherings. Earlier, police had chased noise complaints across Jessheim, locating “several dozen” buses at Gardermoen business park.

In Ålesund, two non-local russebuss were intercepted amid reports of a planned brawl. Police, acting on noise complaints and fight rumors, restricted the buses to the eastern side of Ørskogfjellet until 8 AM Saturday. Oslo police had previously warned they would confiscate buses and expel participants involved in violence, citing incidents at Tryvann, Alnabru, Gaustad, and Hvervenbukta—areas known for past clashes.

Bergen authorities fielded numerous complaints about thumping bass music in Rådalen and Hordnesskogen between 1 AM and 2 AM. Officers found 15–20 buses and intoxicated teens at Hordnesskogen; the last buses departed by 3:25 AM after police negotiated with drivers.

Russefeiring, a month-long tradition for Norwegian graduates, has faced increasing scrutiny over alcohol-fueled disorder. Hvervenbukta, south of Oslo, remains a notorious flashpoint for past violence.