Swedish Authorities Propose Secret Detention Hearings and Enhanced Cooperation to Combat Gang Violence

Swedish authorities are intensifying efforts to combat gang violence and organized crime through a series of proposed measures aimed at making it harder for criminals to evade justice abroad. Six key agencies—including the Police Authority, Economic Crime Authority, Prosecution Authority, Tax Agency, Customs Agency, and Prison and Probation Service—have jointly submitted recommendations to change international detention rules. A central feature of the proposal is enabling secret detention hearings, where courts could authorize detention without notifying suspects, thus preventing criminals from escaping justice before authorities act. Stefan Hector, Deputy Chief of Police, expressed strong support for the measures, stating that they would significantly hinder criminals’ ability to avoid accountability.

Beyond detention procedures, the proposals include granting the Customs Agency access to police international databases, loosening confidentiality restrictions for the Tax Agency to acquire foreign information, and improving alerts for law enforcement about criminals traveling within the Schengen zone. This set of measures aligns with government efforts to strengthen international cooperation in fighting organized crime; notably, 210 internationally wanted individuals have already been arrested abroad this year following Sweden’s requests.

Complementing these legal proposals, a public discussion involving Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer and legal spokesperson Teresa Carvalho acknowledged a possible turning point in Sweden’s persistent gang violence. Police chief Jale Poljarevius suggested signs that the peak of gang violence might have been reached, reflecting cautious optimism amidst ongoing challenges.

These developments underscore the coordinated approach among Swedish authorities to intensify police and judicial responses to gang-related crime, marking a critical phase in the country’s long struggle with violence and organized criminal networks. The proposals are currently under government consideration, with the potential to reshape law enforcement’s ability to pursue criminals both domestically and internationally.