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Sweden Today

Swedish news in English

Friday, September 20, 2024

Sweden's Gang Crime Crisis: A Complex Challenge

Published: 2024-09-12

Sweden is grappling with a severe gang crime crisis, largely attributed to challenges in integrating a large immigrant population, according to National Police Chief Petra Lundh.

In a recent interview, Lundh highlighted that the issue is not merely a failure of policing but a broader societal problem.

The country has witnessed 186 shootings this year, resulting in 31 deaths, with violence increasingly involving younger individuals.

A significant factor is the influence of around 600 gang members operating from abroad, complicating efforts to curb the crime wave.

These individuals, often holding dual citizenship, are difficult to extradite and prosecute in Sweden.

Lundh warns that while efforts are ongoing, the problem may never fully disappear, underscoring the need for comprehensive international cooperation.