Swedish Teen Contract Killers in Denmark

Danish officials are intensifying their calls for Sweden to assist in combating a surge of criminal activity attributed to Swedish citizens, particularly minors. Since August, Danish police have charged several Swedish teenagers with serious offenses, including attempted murder and bomb-related incidents. Danish Minister for Justice, Nick Hummelgaard, described these youths as "child soldiers" recruited by criminal organizations in Denmark, emphasizing the need for Sweden to take responsibility for this troubling trend. The recruitment of these teenagers is reportedly facilitated through social media platforms like Telegram, where they are lured with promises of substantial financial rewards for engaging in various criminal acts, ranging from vandalism to violent crimes. Hummelgaard expressed the government's commitment to addressing this issue, stating, "We will not accept that," and underscoring the seriousness of the situation. In response to the escalating violence, Danish authorities plan to enhance cross-border police cooperation, which includes deploying Danish officers in Sweden and increasing border controls. The aim is to deter Swedish youths from participating in criminal activities in Denmark and to send a clear message about the consequences of such actions. Crime journalist Diamant Salihu highlighted that the issue transcends socioeconomic backgrounds, noting that the allure of gang culture is now attracting youths from diverse backgrounds, including those from middle-class families. He cautioned against oversimplifying the problem as solely one of disadvantaged youth, pointing out that even girls are becoming involved in these criminal enterprises.