Sweden revokes residence permits for gang criminals
Swedish authorities have revoked residence permits for eleven people with links to criminal gangs. Approximately 600 gang members are reported to be hiding in 57 countries.
Sweden revokes residence permits for gang criminals
Swedish authorities are intensifying their fight against organised crime. Police in Stockholm announced that eleven people with links to criminal networks have lost their residence permits in the country.
The individuals concerned are located outside Sweden's borders and are suspected of serious crimes in finance, violence and drug trafficking. According to police, they are likely staying in countries such as Iraq, Lebanon, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco and Spain.
Revoking a residence permit means that individuals are excluded from the social security system and prohibited from running businesses. It also makes entry to the Schengen area, that is, primarily to other EU countries, more difficult.
The Migration Agency makes decisions on residence permits. The National Operations Unit (NOA) has analysed the situation for 150 leading figures within gangs located abroad. In fifteen cases, an application was made to invalidate their residence documents. This procedure is possible three months after the person has left the country.
Many criminals operate in Sweden but hide abroad, often in countries where they have their roots or connections. Gang members use encrypted messaging apps to issue orders to their associates or recruit young people. According to a report from NOA published in 2024, approximately 600 gang members are hiding in 57 countries, including Poland.
Swedish authorities have intensified cooperation with countries where the criminals are staying over recent months. This has led to several high-profile arrests, but in some cases extradition is prevented by the fact that the suspects hold dual citizenship.
Source: RMF24
Source: RMF24