Moderaterna proposes life imprisonment for leading figures in criminal gangs. The party aims to target those directing the criminal networks, according to Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer. The proposal ties into an upcoming investigation on criminalizing gang membership.
Moderaterna is pushing for tougher penalties against criminal gang leaders. The party wants to introduce life imprisonment for those convicted of leading or participating in such organizations, once a new law on gang membership takes effect. This requires a constitutional amendment to limit freedom of association for criminal groups.
Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer (M) emphasizes the importance of reaching the directors: "It is a way to really get at those who direct and control." Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (M) describes the role of gang leaders: "The gang leaders concern us enormously. It is a ruthlessness we have never experienced before in Sweden. They sit in different places, fewer now than before, and use 'crime as a service' as the police say. They simply order crimes for payment."
The government has already proposed making membership in criminal gangs punishable, to reach even those who do not commit the crimes themselves but order or enable them. An investigation into the proposal will be presented on February 13. Strömmer explains the purpose: "Just to be able to lock up these leaders for a really long time. Both to hold them accountable, but also to weaken the networks in that way."
The ministers believe it will be clear who counts as a leading figure through police investigations. Kristersson notes: "They often have a good grasp. There are reasons why many go to Turkey or Iraq, it is because they know they would be high game to catch." They expect support from the other government parties, and Strömmer says: "I find it hard to believe we would face any major resistance."
