Sweden’s police chief warns gangs adapt quickly to law enforcement tactics

Shootings in Sweden have declined for three consecutive years, but the country’s national police chief warns that criminal networks are rapidly adjusting to new law enforcement strategies, making long-term progress uncertain.

Speaking on public broadcaster SVT’s 30 minuter programme, Petra Lundh confirmed that the downward trend in gun violence—now at its lowest level in years—reflects successful policing and legislative changes. In early 2026, Sweden recorded 15 shootings, compared to 39 in the same period last year.

“We’ve broken the shooting trend,” Lundh said. “The differences are significant, and it’s satisfying to see our new methods, combined with legislation, yielding results.”

However, she cautioned against declaring victory. “The gangs are still there. We’ve at least reduced their capacity for violence—that we can confirm.”

While shootings have decreased, other serious crimes, such as explosions, are rising, and gangs continue to recruit minors. Lundh highlighted systemic challenges, noting that children as young as 13–14 fall outside criminal liability, limiting police intervention to brief detentions before social services must take over.

“These networks are highly organised and well-funded,” she said. “They adapt incredibly fast to what we do, so we must be prepared.”

The number of active gang criminals remains stable at around 17,500—a figure Lundh called “staggering.” Though prosecutions have disrupted some violent operations, she stressed that broader societal efforts are needed to address the root causes of recruitment and crime.