Sweden targets gang tactics with early surveillance law
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson announced the introduction of a law allowing the surveillance of children to prevent their exploitation by gangs. In January, there were over 30 bomb explosions in the country.
- We are in the middle of a new wave of violence, with explosions now more frequent, basically one a day - said Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.
After the Crime Prevention Council meeting, which included the police, the Prime Minister noted that the current situation in the country resembles "internal terrorism."
The explosions, mostly occurring in the Stockholm region, are destroying entrance doors, stairwells, and windows. Several people have been slightly injured. According to the police, the explosives are often planted by children aged 12-13 who are recruited by gangs through messaging apps and social media.
The head of the Swedish police, Petra Lundh, indicated that most explosions are related to extorting money from businesses and private individuals. An additional 100 officers have been brought to Stockholm, and drones are monitoring the city's southern districts.
The Minister of Justice, Gunnar Stroemmer, announced that the new law allowing the surveillance of children will come into effect earlier than planned, in October this year.