Drug smuggling increasing in Norrbotten – gang links and transit to Finland
Police in Norrbotten report a sharp increase in drug trafficking during 2026. The county has become an important transit route for drugs heading to Finland, with connections to criminal networks further south.
Drug smuggling increasing in Norrbotten – gang links and transit to Finland
Police in Norrbotten have found that the availability of illegal drugs in the region has surged during the current year. Both the police and customs authorities have seized record quantities, whilst cross-border cooperation with Finland has intensified.
Patrik Hellberg heads the investigation unit in the county. He describes a dramatic change compared with the past.
– The difference is enormous when it comes to how easy it is to get hold of drugs up here now. We are talking about really large quantities in our raids, and the majority is transported here from the southern part of the country, he tells SVT Nyheter.
According to Hellberg, Norrbotten has developed into a central hub for international illegal trade. Most of the investigations show links to gang activity in southern Sweden.
– You have to understand that we are part of a transport route onwards to Finland, he explains to SVT Nyheter.
Keeping watch on the border with Finland is particularly difficult during the winter half of the year because it stretches across enormous distances. Nevertheless, the police's enhanced efforts and closer cooperation with Finnish authorities have borne fruit.
– Our sources within the drug-using community tell us that it becomes harder to obtain drugs during periods when we have managed to make large seizures. It shows that we actually affect availability, says Hellberg.
He also expresses support for preventative work.
– All measures that help people away from drug abuse are positive. Every person who gets out is a victory, says the investigation chief.
Source: Google News SE — Crime (sv)