Police in South Iceland are investigating reports of extensive off-road driving that allegedly caused environmental damage in several sensitive highland areas over the weekend.
The issue has sparked significant discussion in Icelandic social media groups focused on mountain road conditions and the tourism industry.
Posts circulating online claim a group of French tourists drove across protected terrain near Kötlujökull glacier, Einhyrningur and Hvanngil, leaving visible tracks in fragile landscapes.
What’s the Story?
Original source: RÚV
- Police are investigating reports of illegal off-road driving in South Iceland.
- Social media users have linked the damage to a group travelling in French-registered Land Rover vehicles.
- Authorities say offenders can face fines amounting to hundreds of thousands of Icelandic krónur.
Police Investigation
The individuals accused of causing the damage are reportedly travelling in Land Rover vehicles bearing French licence plates. Icelandic authorities have not publicly confirmed the identity of those involved.
Þorsteinn M. Kristinsson, Chief Superintendent with the South Iceland Police, confirmed that the matter is under investigation and is being treated seriously.
He said preventing such offences relies on a combination of ranger patrols, clear signage and providing visitors with accurate information about road closures and environmental protections.
“Nature is particularly vulnerable at this time of year,” Þorsteinn said, noting that many highland routes remain closed despite the start of the summer travel season. He specifically pointed to the Fjallabak South route, which remains closed to vehicle traffic.
Authorities are urging members of the public to report suspected off-road driving to the emergency number 112 as quickly as possible. Þorsteinn said delays can make investigations considerably more difficult, particularly when multiple police districts must cooperate to locate suspects.
While police were occupied over the weekend by a serious traffic accident and a large music festival at Þingvellir, Þorsteinn said the case remains active.
“No one should be driving vehicles in these areas,” he said, adding that fines for illegal off-road driving can run into the hundreds of thousands of krónur.
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