In recent weeks, there have been reports that local gangs have set up their own roadblocks in residential areas in Gothenburg and checked both vehicles and people in the cars when they entered. Among other things, they must have shone into cars with flashlights.
Erik Nord, Chief of Police in Greater Gothenburg, now states that the police presence has been strengthened and that a number of efforts have been made.
- We're on it right away. As soon as we receive information about it, we go to the place and take action against the person, he says in Aktuellt.
Masked and armedAccording to Erik Nord, the police received indications about the phenomenon last week and the whole thing is believed to be rooted in an ongoing gang conflict that has included a number of serious crimes and attempted murders.
Roadblocks, he says, are likely a way to prevent attacks.
- To protect their territory or area, checkpoints have been set up. We have been masked, we have received information about, and there is also information that there have been weapons, he says.
That the phenomenon occurs, says Erik Nord, is a result of the parallel societal structures that have grown up in several particularly vulnerable areas in Sweden. In the past, it has been common for gangs to use scouts and guards to warn of police presence.
- But that it goes so far as to establish what is perceived as roadblocks is something new and an upgrade of the problem, says Erik Nord.
- This is no surprise to us. But it is extremely provocative and creates great insecurity for those who live in the areas.
Hear more in the clip above