A New Trend in Criminal Services Through Social Media Emerges in Denmark
A troubling new trend has reportedly made its way to Denmark, where young Swedish “freelance criminals” are engaging in criminal activities that range from minor offenses to attempted murder. According to criminologist David Sausdal, this phenomenon observed on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok is part of a growing trend.
In the past week, three Swedish teenagers have been charged with attempted murder in Denmark. Sausdal believes that these incidents could be linked either to ongoing conflicts between Danish and Swedish gangs or freelance arrangements where Swedish gang members take on jobs across borders. He points out that although the motives behind these crimes remain unclear, they may very well be part of an active gang conflict in Sweden.
“It is not uncommon to purchase criminal services online, but the extent and openness of these services on platforms like Instagram and TikTok is new,” Sausdal notes. He explains that this market often attracts young men who do not necessarily have a violent background, further highlighting the violent issue Sweden faces.
The digitalization of the gang environment has created a marketplace where criminal services can be easily and openly accessed. Sausdal emphasizes the need for political action and greater understanding of the implications and consequences of this digital shift. “We need a new strategy that specifically addresses this development,” he states.
Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard has expressed that the government is working diligently to prevent the spread of Swedish criminal conditions to Denmark. He describes the current situation as “harmful to public health” and “deeply brutal.” Consequently, Hummelgaard has summoned the Chief of Police and the National Special Crime Unit for an emergency meeting this week to discuss potential measures.
The transformation occurring on social media presents both a challenging and disturbing development that requires prompt and effective political and legal interventions to ensure that criminality does not escalate further.