Sweden Intensifies Fight Against Gang Violence with Enhanced Biometric Surveillance
In response to a concerning surge in firearm and explosive-related crimes, the Swedish government is fast-tracking its initiative to amplify police access to advanced biometric systems. This move, backed by both the government and a leading far-right conservative party, aims to swiftly address the rising tide of gang violence.
The urgency of the situation has prompted an expedited inquiry process, set to conclude in half the typical duration. The justice minister has confirmed that the results of this inquiry will be made public by the upcoming spring.
Government inquiries usually serve a dual purpose: to either sideline an issue or to showcase that a proposed action has undergone thorough scrutiny. In this instance, the objective is evidently the latter.
A united front has emerged with conservative and right-leaning parties, including the Moderates, Christian Democrats, and Liberals, rallying together to bolster biometric surveillance measures.
While the exact facial recognition technology to be employed is yet to be detailed, mentions of drones and traffic cameras hint at a preference for real-time facial recognition over post-event analysis.
Among the options under consideration is a proposal to quadruple the number of surveillance cameras accessible to the police. If approved, this would integrate an additional 2,500 cameras, both new and existing, into police facial recognition algorithms by December 2023. This is a significant increase from the original plan by 900 cameras. The proposed measures also pave the way for the police to utilize automated number plate recognition (ANPR).
Euractiv reports suggest that drones and road cameras managed by Sweden’s Transportation Administration might be integrated into this expansive surveillance network. This proposal has been in the public domain since 2019 and was presented to the European Union earlier this year.
A notable shift in surveillance authority occurred this month. While the national security service, Säpo, previously held the majority of surveillance powers, the police have now been endowed with expanded capabilities. They can utilize biometric identifiers and eavesdropping tools to combat gang-related crimes, including bombings, murders, abductions, and drug trafficking. Moreover, the focus of surveillance has expanded from areas to specific individuals, signaling a strategic shift in approach.
Sweden's proactive stance in enhancing biometric surveillance to counteract gang violence underscores the government's dedication to public safety. The collaboration of conservative and right-leaning parties in this endeavor reflects a unified determination to combat crime.
