The royal family of Norway is facing a scandal that has sent shockwaves through the nation, as Crown Princess Mette-Marit's son, Marius Borg Hoiby, has been arrested following allegations of assault.

The incident in Oslo has raised questions about the behaviour of those close to the royal circle and the pressures of living in the public eye.


Marius Borg Hoiby, 27, was born to Mette-Marit from a previous relationship before her marriage to Crown Prince Haakon in 2001.

Crown Prince Haakon is the heir apparent to the Norwegian throne, and the public generally holds the family in high regard.

However, this recent event has overshadowed the family's image.


The altercation reportedly occurred in an apartment in Oslo during the early hours of Sunday.

Police were called to the scene and subsequently arrested a man on suspicion of assaulting a woman.

‘As it has been made known in several media that this (person) is Marius Borg Hoiby, the police confirm that Hoiby is a suspect in the case,’ they said.


The identity of the woman has not been disclosed by the police, who have only indicated that there was a 'relationship between the accused and the victim.'

Hoiby was released from custody the following day, but the police have confirmed that he remains a suspect in the case, with allegations of causing 'bodily harm and damage.'

Fortunately, the police have stated that there is 'no information that the victim suffered serious injuries.'

Crown Prince Haakon acknowledged the gravity of the situation, commenting on the matter to Norwegian media despite being in Paris for the Olympics.


He described the police's involvement as 'serious' but refrained from further comment, stating that it would not be appropriate at the time.

‘It’s a serious matter when police are involved like this,’ he said.

‘At the same time, it would not be right for me to comment on it at this time.’

Unlike his step-siblings, Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus, who have official public roles, Marius Borg Hoiby has been raised without such responsibilities.

Mette-Marit and Haakon raised him alongside his step-siblings, but he has been allowed to live a relatively free life relatively free of royal duties.
How do you feel about the pressures royal families face, and do you believe they should be held to higher standards than the general public? Your insights are valuable, and we look forward to reading your comments below.