Swedish Enforcement Authority Seizes More Luxury Cars Remotely from Criminals
The Swedish Enforcement Authority, Kronofogden, is increasing remote seizures of luxury vehicles from criminals, enabled by a 2022 law.
Key Points
- • Kronofogden is seizing more luxury cars from criminals.
- • Over 90% of seizures involve cars and vehicles.
- • In 2022, 115 million kronor worth of property was seized remotely; about 68 million kronor from January to July 2023.
- • Future legislation may allow more agencies to conduct remote seizures.
In a notable rise in operations against criminal activity, the Swedish Enforcement Authority, Kronofogden, has ramped up its remote seizures of luxury vehicles, a trend catalyzed by a legal amendment enacted in 2022. This law allows for assets to be confiscated without the agency needing to be physically present, significantly increasing the efficiency of property recovery.
Since the implementation of this remote seizure capability, over 90% of the confiscated items are vehicles, with luxury brands like Audi, Mercedes, BMW, and Tesla being commonly targeted. In 2022 alone, Kronofogden seized property worth a staggering 115 million kronor via remote methods, and as of July 2023, preliminary figures indicate that an additional nearly 68 million kronor has been confiscated this year. The average number of luxury cars seized monthly stands between 70 and 80, illustrating a focused campaign against criminals who flaunt such high-value items as status symbols.
Johannes Paulson, the national coordinator against crime at Kronofogden, emphasized that the visibility and prominence of these luxury vehicles make them prime targets in operations against crime. However, the practice has not been without controversy; concerns regarding the legality of certain seizures have emerged. Notably, complications have arisen when vehicles were seized under dubious circumstances, such as a case where a woman’s car was taken because it had been lent to a friend with outstanding debts. Such decisions can be appealed, but they operate within the legal frameworks established by the recent amendment.
Looking forward, there is potential for further changes in legislation. A proposed amendment, which is set to take effect in July 2026, aims to permit additional agencies, including customs and economic crime authorities, to conduct remote seizures. Paulson believes that this could enhance operational effectiveness and broaden the scope of law enforcement in combating organized crime in Sweden.
As Kronofogden continues to utilize this innovative approach, observers are keen to see how it evolves, especially in terms of addressing legal concerns while maintaining the focus on recovering assets tied to criminal activities.