A relationship between crime and police

“I argue that policing is largely a community-oriented profession, in which their relationship to the people they protect is essential for a safe and sustainable environment. This relationship, however, is two-sided, as it is not only up to the police to build constructive connections, but also the community’s responsibility to partake in this partnership.”
Two police officers, a man and a woman, engaged in conversation. The woman wears a light blue police uniform with a badge and a light blue beret, while the man wears a darker blue uniform with patches on the shoulder. They are indoors, possibly in a police station or event setting.

Written by:

Tomas Bue Kessel, Student Intern at the ICT4COP Centre

Cecilia Dunster, International Expert for Women in Policing 

Photo: Cecilia Dunster

On June 25, 2022, the London Pub in Oslo became the site of a shooting. An estimated 250 people bore witness, 21 were injured, and two died. The news struck international headlines, and many Norwegians were reminded of the tragic events of Oslo and Utøya eleven years prior. Two months later, Oslo again experienced a series of shootings and criminal violence, shaking the capital. 

The recent shootings vary in nature, with the June attack targeting a specific group, while others were gang-related. Are these acts of violence random, part of a general rise in crime, or indicative of a deeper erosion in trust between the government, police, and the public? While this article does not seek to solve the issue, it aims to reflect on preventive actions that could help counter the potential rise in violent crime. 

Building trust between the police and the community is no simple task. Communication is key. Perhaps the police could engage more with communities through events, workshops, and public discussions. By understanding the community’s needs and the factors that lead to crime, both parties can develop solutions to address the root causes of violence. 

We do not yet know whether Oslo's crime rate surge is a temporary spike or a growing trend. While I am not an expert in Oslo’s police force, I believe that strengthening community-oriented policing, fostering dialogue, and building mutual trust could contribute to safer neighbourhoods.