Trouble in paradise? Escalating gang wars in Sweden

A person dressed in black hurled a hand grenade into a shop in the crime-ridden suburb of Geneta, Sodertalje.

Several bystanders were injured, and a woman in her 50s was airlifted to the hospital. A day later, a man was shot and injured on a nearby street.

This surge in gang violence is part of a brutal summer that spells trouble for Sweden’s government.

Rising crime amid promises of safety

Sweden Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and his right-wing allies narrowly won an election two years ago, promising to end a decade of spiraling clashes between drug runners.

However, crime statistics paint a grim picture for a nation known for its peaceful and prosperous image.

So far this year, there have been 148 shootings in Sweden, resulting in 20 deaths and 26 injuries. In 2023, there were 53 gun deaths, following 62 in 2022.

“Things can’t continue like this,” said Tony Aoun, a 17-year-old student in Geneta.

“This has always been a strong community, but this violence has to stop.”

Escalating gang wars

Sweden is grappling with an increase in gang violence, driven by internationally linked drug gangs vying for control of local narcotics markets.

The Nordic state now has among the highest rates of shooting deaths in Europe, with many gang members dying over recent years.

The violence is becoming less discriminate, with more bystanders falling victim to stray gunfire and bombings.

The Kristersson government has extended sentences for gun crimes and is considering lowering the age at which children can be punished.

One notable policy is the rollout of “security zones,” allowing police to stop and search citizens in designated areas.

The first zone was established in Norrköping after a double gangland hit in June, followed by a zone in Geneta after a July murder.

Short-lived peace in Sodertalje, Geneta

The Geneta security zone, active from July 6 for two weeks, showed a strong police presence and surveillance.

While some residents found the policy intrusive, others felt it was necessary.

However, violence resumed shortly after the zone ended, with a grenade attack on a shop and a shooting on a nearby street.

Sodertalje Mayor Boel Godner, a Social Democrat, highlighted the community’s frustration. “This is a serious situation,” she said.

“People are upset and angry that their town is being associated with these criminals.”

Experts suggest that the government must demonstrate progress in reducing crime before the 2026 elections, as it remains a top issue for voters in the region.