Despite an increased police presence in Södertälje, there have been five shootings in two weeks, three of which were fatal.  

- It underlines that significantly more far-reaching efforts will be required to stop the gangs, break new recruitment and make the streets safer for ordinary people again, says Johan Forssell (M).

Residents in Södertälje have testified to SVT that they are afraid to leave their homes after the escalating violence.

"No one should have to get used to it"

Johan Forssell (M) highlights, among other things, visitation zones, tougher penalties and increased camera surveillance as proposals for measures to make life safer.

- No one should have to get used to this kind of shootings, explosions and unpleasantness that unfortunately happens every day.

Morgan Johansson: Society must gather strength

Outgoing Minister of Justice Morgan Johansson (S) believes that the events in Södertälje are a major setback and that society must gather even more strength.

"Those who risk being recruited by criminal gangs must be caught earlier.

We therefore need to invest even more in school, leisure activities, social services and labor market measures," he writes in a text message to SVT.

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Hear Södertälje's incoming municipal councilor (M) about how the municipality should combat gang crime.

Photo: Rosanna Lindén