Police report rise in commissioned crime cases

Police have recorded 79 new charges linked to commissioned crime from January through the end of July, DR reported Monday. The phenomenon is known as Violence as a Service.

The Justice Ministry released the figures as the government sent a bill for consultation proposing tougher penalties and stronger measures against gang-related crime and other offences.

From April 2024 through the end of July 2026, police unit NSK recorded a total of 316 charges that may be linked to commissioned crime. The number stood at 237 in January, according to figures released by the ministry in February.

The bill would increase penalties for commissioned crime and treat criminal families in the same way as gangs.

Justice Minister Nicolai Wammen said the government would take tougher action against gangs.

We will not tolerate children and young people being recruited into a life of crime, or residential areas being marked by fear, control and parallel power structures, he said.

The bill would also introduce a new provision in the criminal code intended to make it easier to convict people who assist criminal masterminds with minor services.

It would allow background checks on port workers and increase penalties for violating residence bans. Police have recorded a sharp rise in such offences.

A residence ban can be imposed on people who have committed crimes as part of a gang. It prevents them from entering a specified area, such as part of a city or municipality, for a set period.

Violating a residence ban currently carries a fine of 10,000 kroner. Under the proposal, it would instead result in 30 days in prison.

The 162 page bill has now been sent to the Danish Judges Association, lawyers, police and other parties, who can submit their objections or concerns.