Denmark and Sweden Crack Down on Gang Leaders Hiring Minors for Assassinations

In a concerted effort to combat organized crime, Danish and Swedish justice ministers announced plans to target crime leaders abroad who are allegedly recruiting teenagers in Sweden to execute violent acts in Denmark. Danish Minister Peter Hummelgaard revealed that there have been at least 25 instances since April where young Swedes were hired to commit crimes in Denmark, attributing this trend to Sweden's lenient penalties for minors involved in serious offenses. Hummelgaard emphasized the need to address the issue, stating that many orchestrators of these violent crimes are believed to be residing in warmer climates, particularly in the greater Middle East. The ministers highlighted the ongoing gang violence that has plagued both nations, with Sweden experiencing a more severe crisis. Reports indicate that one of Sweden's prominent gangs, led by a dual national residing in Turkey, is engaged in a violent feud with Denmark's Loyal to Familia gang, which was banned in 2021. The recruitment of minors for violent crimes has surged, as they are less likely to face stringent police scrutiny and prosecution compared to adults. In response to the escalating violence, Swedish Minister Gunnar Strömmer announced plans to tighten laws regarding juvenile offenders, noting the disparity in sentencing between the two countries. While minors convicted of murder in Sweden are placed in juvenile facilities, Danish law allows for up to 16 years in prison for similar offenses. Both ministers also committed to addressing online gang activities, with Strömmer pointing out that criminal networks are openly coordinating violent acts through digital platforms. Hummelgaard suggested potential solutions, including the use of facial recognition technology and enhanced monitoring of encrypted communications to better track gang activities.