A man in his 50s was severely beaten by a youth gang in Hässelby Villastad, west Stockholm, during the early hours of Sunday.

The incident, which resulted in the man being hospitalized with serious but non-life-threatening injuries, occurred after he confronted the group near his home, close to a preschool.

Police launched a major operation, including helicopter support, to search for the assailants, reportedly involving seven to nine youths.

Initial suspects were detained and questioned but were later released.

A criminal investigation for aggravated assault has been initiated, with reports of a baseball bat being involved in the attack.