The Oslo police district has recorded the lowest clearance rate in Norway at 33% for the year 2025, according to figures published by Politiforum. This marks a significant decline since the introduction of the local policing reform in 2016, with the overall clearance rate dropping by 14 percentage points. Although there has been a marginal improvement from 32% in 2024, the district continues to struggle with various challenges associated with urban crime, which often involves tourists and transient populations, complicating the detective process.

Beate Brinch Sand, head of the Common Unit for Prosecution in the Oslo police district, attributes this consistent low clearance rate to the unique crime landscape prevalent in the capital city. She highlights the predominance of 'capital city crimes,' including theft and other forms of property crime, which are commonly committed in busy urban areas. The influx of tourists and transient individuals exacerbates the situation, making it increasingly difficult for local law enforcement to effectively address these crimes compared to more serious offenses like murder and violent crimes that take priority in investigations.

While the low clearance rate is concerning, Brinch Sand emphasizes the necessity for the police to prioritize more grave crimes such as homicide, assault, sexual offenses, and hate crimes over less serious cases. This highlights a broader challenge within urban policing, wherein local police forces must navigate resource allocation and strategic focus on various types of crimes, especially in a metropolitan area known for its diverse and fluctuating population.