Citizen's Arrest in Denmark (2026 Legal Guide) — Rules & Requirements
About this article
Sourced from Danish Acts of Parliament (love), executive orders (bekendtgørelser), and official government guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Danish law allows private individuals to make an arrest in limited circumstances:
- You may detain a person caught in the act of committing a criminal offence.
- The person must be handed over to the police as soon as possible.
- You may use reasonable force to carry out the arrest, but no more than necessary.
- This right is rarely used and carries risk — if the arrest is considered unjustified, you can yourself be charged with unlawful deprivation of liberty.
When does it apply?
- You personally witness someone committing a crime — e.g. theft, violence or vandalism.
- There is an urgent need to prevent the person from fleeing before the police arrive.
What to do if you witness a crime and want to detain the offender in Denmark
- Call the police first (112) if possible — let them handle it.
- If you must intervene, use only the minimum necessary force to prevent the person from leaving.
- Hand the person over to the police immediately when they arrive.
- Identify yourself and explain to the arriving officers what you witnessed.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't use excessive force — you can be liable for assault if your response is disproportionate.
- Don't detain anyone on suspicion alone — the right applies only to offences you directly witnessed.
- Don't question the person or search their belongings — that is a job for the police.
About Police & Civil Rights in Denmark
Your rights during a Danish police encounter stem from Retsplejeloven (the Administration of Justice Act) and § 71 of the Constitution (Grundloven), which requires that you be brought before a judge within 24 hours of arrest. If you are stopped, you must give your name, address and date of birth — but you have the right to remain silent about criminal matters. On arrest you must be told the reason and have access to a defence lawyer (court-appointed if you cannot afford one). A search of a home normally requires a court order. Complaints about police conduct are filed with the independent DUP.
Common Questions
Is a citizen's arrest lawful in Denmark?
Yes, but only in narrow cases under § 755(2) of the Administration of Justice Act. You may detain a person caught in the act of committing a criminal offence, may only use reasonable force and must hand them over to the police as soon as possible. The right is rarely used and carries legal risk.
Can I be charged for making a citizen's arrest in Denmark?
Yes, if the arrest is considered unjustified, you can be charged with unlawful deprivation of liberty, or with assault if your use of force was disproportionate. Always call 112 first where possible, and let the police handle the situation.
What must I not do during a citizen's arrest in Denmark?
You must not question the person or search their belongings — that is a job for the police. You cannot detain anyone on suspicion alone; the right applies only to offences you directly witnessed. Use the minimum necessary force and hand the person over to the arriving officers immediately.
What is the citizen's arrest right in Denmark?
Danish law allows private individuals to make an arrest in limited circumstances:You may detain a person caught in the act of committing a criminal offence.The person must be handed over to the police as soon as possible.You may use reasonable force to carry out the arrest, but no more than necessary.This right is rarely used and carries risk — if the arrest is considered unjustified, you can yourself be charged with unlawful deprivation of liberty.
When does it apply — citizen's arrest?
You personally witness someone committing a crime — e.g. theft, violence or vandalism.There is an urgent need to prevent the person from fleeing before the police arrive.
What should I do if I see someone commit a crime and the police have not yet arrived in Denmark?
Call the police first (112) if possible — let them handle it.If you must intervene, use only the minimum necessary force to prevent the person from leaving.Hand the person over to the police immediately when they arrive.Identify yourself and explain to the arriving officers what you witnessed.
What should you NOT do — citizen's arrest?
Don't use excessive force — you can be liable for assault if your response is disproportionate.Don't detain anyone on suspicion alone — the right applies only to offences you directly witnessed.Don't question the person or search their belongings — that is a job for the police.