Significant rise in armed incidents reported in 2023 as knives dominate weapon possession statistics in Sweden

Significant changes in weapon possession were noted in 2017, marked by a sharp increase. The majority of incidents involving armed individuals were related to knife possession. In 2023, the Special Forces of the national police were deployed to 644 calls, with 461 reports regarding armed persons. An overwhelming 69 percent of these individuals were carrying knives or other stabbing weapons.

Data reveals that 361 individuals were armed with edged weapons, representing 69 percent of all reported cases of weapon possession. Following knives, firearms accounted for 17 percent, while 13 percent were armed with other weapons. These statistics were presented in a response from the Minister of Justice to parliamentary inquiries concerning police responses and weapon confiscations.

The numbers reflect trends dating back to 2007, when the Special Forces were armed for only 53 assignments. Over the next decade, incidents steadily increased, but a notable spike occurred in 2017 when reports of armed individuals jumped from 63 in 2016 to 161—a staggering 155 percent increase within a year. This upward trend has continued, with 461 reports in 2023.

Additionally, it is noteworthy that regular police were armed in 180 situations last year, a significant increase from just 86 in 2022. This rise in police armament reflects growing concerns regarding public safety and weapon possession in the region.