Sweden reports significant decline in gang shootings and explosions

Sweden is experiencing a significant decline in gang-related violence. Shootings have decreased steadily since autumn 2023, with only 12 people killed in 49 shootings so far this year, compared to 101 shootings during the same period in 2025.

Regional data shows varying levels of impact. In the West police region, where the decline began in 2015, no one has been killed by gunfire. The South and Stockholm regions reported four fatal shootings each. Other regions, including East, Central, Bergslagen, and North, reported either isolated fatal incidents or zero fatalities.

Explosions are also trending downward. There were two recorded explosions in July compared to five in June, marking the lowest monthly total for the year. Between January and July 2026, there were 71 explosions, a notable decrease from the 123 recorded during the same period in 2025. Authorities noted that police interventions prevented several planned acts of public destruction in July.

While violent crime is decreasing, gang activity has not diminished in overall scope. Criminal networks have shifted their focus toward fraud and benefit scams, including abuses related to ROT, RUT, and various social assistance programs.