Sweden enacts law doubling maximum jail time for gang crimes

Sweden has passed a law that doubles the maximum prison terms for offenses tied to organized crime, with the changes taking effect on Saturday. Under the revised framework, a gang member found in possession of a firearm can now face up to eight years in prison, compared with the former four-year ceiling. The legislation also broadens harsher sentencing to juvenile offenders, while still allowing for reduced sentences for minors.

Authorities hope the tougher penalties will deter the growing wave of gang violence that has seen criminal networks recruiting teenagers for contract killings. The reform w. This step represents a major shift in Sweden's strategy to combat gang-related crime.