Almost four tonnes of cannabis and 216 kilos of cocaine were seized in Sweden last year, which is a large increase compared to last year.
- We can state that the year 2020 was an all-time record when it comes to seizures made by the Swedish Customs, and then I am talking especially about drugs, says Oscar Lindvall.
Among other things, more personnel in external service and technical aids have made customs controls at, for example, the Öresund Bridge and the large ferry ports such as the port of Helsingborg more efficient.
Selects alternative paths
But drug smuggling does not only take place in the larger ports or via the Öresund Bridge - but also in smaller marinas.
- We have examples of drugs that have floated ashore in Nyhamnsläge, that they have tried to take in drugs with inflatable boats from Ven and people who have tried to paddle in with boats in marinas.
An alternative route is chosen to minimize the risk of being discovered, says Oscar Lindvall.
Focus on the west coast
Now, therefore, the Swedish Customs is increasing its presence in marinas, both visible and civilian.
The west coast of Skåne will be in particular focus.
- There are examples of people who have smuggled or tried to smuggle drugs this way and it is of course the proximity to Denmark that is crucial for that kind of activity,
Hear Oscar Lindvall from the Swedish Customs' southern region tell more about why customs will increase the presence in marinas in the clip above.