It might sound like a practical joke, but a popular EU country has confirmed its strict rules – which comes with a hefty £215 fine after a sign was spotted near Russia’s border
Brits have been warned over a seemingly satire rule that could end up landing you in hot water. A melting pot of lush rugged mountains, glassy lakes, and red panelled lodges, Norway attracted a staggering 5.6 million international visitors last year.
Less than two hours from the UK, the Scandinavian hotspot has long been popular with Brits – especially for more adventurous holidaymakers wanting to trek into the breathtaking fjjords and brave the freezing cold waters. However, the country has a rather strict policy that most people know nothing about.
Last month, Mikhail Khodorkovsky, an exiled Russian businessman who reportedly now resides in London, shared a picture on X (formerly Twitter) of a handmade sign in Norway that warned tourists ‘no peeing towards Russia’. It is believed the sign was hung up on the banks of the Jakobselva River, which separates Norway from Russia, back in August, 2021.
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“Norway’s border with Russia is the northernmost, the most stable part of the NATO-Russia frontier,” Mikhail wrote. “The Norwegians want to keep it that way and recently have sharpened existing restrictions. You can get fined for touching [Russia], throwing stones at it, and now also peeing towards it.”
While it may sound like a belated April Fool’s prank, Norway’s border commissioner, Jens-Arne Høilund, reportedly confirmed the sign appeared in the Grense Jakobselv village four years ago. According to the Express, the politician explained that any ‘offensive behaviour’ at the border is categorically prohibited – and will result in a fine of 3,000 kroner (Around £215).
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While having a pee isn’t ‘inherently offensive’, Jens-Arne claimed it depends on the ‘point of view’ and where it is done. “It may seem harsh, but we enforce the border regulations without fail,” said Jens-Arne. “Here it falls under the law prohibiting offensive behaviour at the border.”
Reports suggest the area is monitored by CCV, allowing police to take action if they think the rules have been breached. However, mystery still surrounds who actually constructed the sign. Police officials stated they didn’t erect the warning themselves.
However, the village is a popular resting point for tourists who have hired a rental car – and may be tempted to relieve themselves with nobody around. “It is set up in a place where tourists often stop, often the first stop after a long drive,” Jens-Arne is cited as saying. “It is likely that some have fallen for the temptation to urinate in the area.”
The bizarre warning follows reports that a woman was fined a staggering €900 (Around £770) for reaching her hand across the stream. Four people were also allegedly detained after throwing small stones towards Russian land.
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