In a startling revelation by Swedish police, it's estimated that 62,000 individuals in Sweden are connected to criminal networks, with 14,000 of these actively involved in gang activities.
The police's comprehensive assessment highlights a disturbing trend of violence, including shootings and bombings, which is described as just "the tip of the iceberg" by National Police Chief Petra Lundh.
Among the active gang members, 2,000 are identified as leaders orchestrating the criminal operations, and a significant portion, 5,300, are considered high-level executors.
This extensive network not only poses a severe threat to societal safety but is also indicative of a broader issue of organized crime that is increasingly being directed from abroad.
Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer stressed the unique and negative distinction Sweden holds in Europe regarding gang violence.