Former criminal warns young women are being used as tools in gang violence

Swedish public broadcaster SVT reports that authorities and crime prevention agencies are seeing a rise in young women involved in serious violent crime, with some being exploited by criminal networks. Natalie Klockars, a former drug dealer who has since left criminal life, now lectures about her experiences and the risks facing young women in gangs.

“Just as criminals buy a car and use it as a tool for crime, many girls are used as a tool for crime,” Klockars told SVT. Her father was part of a criminal gang, but she chose to operate independently, selling drugs to various groups. She described the constant threat of sexual violence as one of the greatest dangers for women in the criminal underworld.

Klockars recounted witnessing extreme violence, including a mock execution of a friend, which contributed to her decision to leave the criminal lifestyle. She now speaks publicly about the turning point that led her to change her life.

Swedish police and the Crime Prevention Council (Brå) have noted an increase in young women participating in severe violent crimes. Support is available for those seeking to exit criminal networks or for concerned relatives through local social services, police, or the national police switchboard at 114 14. In emergencies, dial 112.