Hand Grenade Attacks in Sweden See Significant Increase in 2024

In a worrying trend, Sweden has seen a sharp increase in the use of hand grenades by criminal gangs. The number of explosions has more than doubled in 2024 compared to the previous year. As per the records from the Police National Bomb Data Centre, there were 22 grenade attacks by mid-October, a significant increase from nine in 2023.

Increased Seizure of Hand Grenades at the Border

The Swedish Customs Administration has also noted a rise in the number of hand grenades seized at the border. The number has jumped to 30 this year, a stark contrast to zero last year. Officials believe that criminal gangs have started using grenades as a substitute for stolen commercial explosives, which are now harder to acquire. Malin Nygren, the head of the National Bomb Data Centre, explained the shift by stating, "A hand grenade is already ready in its construction. It does not need to be manufactured but comes complete." This makes it a convenient choice for criminals intending to cause explosions.

Hand Grenades: A New Contraband Item

The customs authorities have observed a change in the nature of contraband items, with hand grenades becoming a significant part of the illegal items seized. Stefan Granath, the deputy head of control at the Swedish Customs Administration, stated, "In the past, hand grenades have been a completely non-existent contraband item from our perspective."

Reflecting the Rising Gang Violence

The increased use of hand grenades is indicative of the escalating gang violence in Sweden. Explosive violence, which was once a rarity, has now become a significant threat. Attacks are frequently targeting residential areas and public spaces as migrant gangs fight over territories in the suburbs of major cities in Sweden. Criminal networks have been using hand grenades to settle disputes, intimidate rivals, or retaliate against authorities. In one of the most prominent incidents this year, a hand grenade exploded outside a residential building in Uppsala, damaging cars and windows. Although no one was injured, the incident raised concerns about public safety.

Preventing the Entry of Weapons

Authorities are now focusing on preventing these weapons from entering the country. While attempts to control explosive materials like dynamite have been successful, criminals have shifted to simpler and more accessible weapons like hand grenades. These are often smuggled in from the Balkans, where they are more readily available. Ardavan Khoshnood, a guest lecturer at Malmö University and senior fellow at Lund University, warned last year that Sweden had become the bombing capital of Europe. It was second only to Mexico as the top country in the world not currently at war to experience the most bombings on its territory. Earlier this month, a teenager was arrested in Sweden for allegedly shooting a man in his 50s in Malmö. Police believe it to be a case of mistaken identity amid escalating gang warfare. Several hand grenades were also found at the scene and the suspect’s residence.

Bottom Line

The surge in hand grenade attacks in Sweden is a disturbing development. It underscores the growing issue of gang violence and the challenges authorities face in curbing it. What are your thoughts on this alarming trend? Share this article with your friends and let us know your views. Remember, you can sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.