Danish authorities intensify efforts to shield youth from gang violence

OSLO, Aug. 15 (Xinhua) — In response to a surge in violent gang conflicts, Danish police have ramped up efforts to prevent young individuals from being drawn into the gang environment, with a specific focus on the capital city of Copenhagen.
The implementation of visitation zones marks a significant step in these efforts, as law enforcement now prioritizes closer collaboration with local communities. The situation has necessitated an increased presence and proactive engagement with residents, Tommy Laursen, police inspector in Copenhagen, told the national broadcaster DR on Wednesday.
“We are massively present. We talk to the population. We try to tell those who are part of the conflict that it is inappropriate,” Laursen said.
The police are not undertaking this preventive campaign in isolation. Various community stakeholders, including youth clubs, have been mobilized to support these initiatives, Laursen noted.
Simultaneously, SSP Copenhagen — a collaborative effort among schools, social services, and the police — has intensified its own preventive measures. Additional personnel have been deployed on the streets of Copenhagen to bolster security and divert young individuals from falling under the influence of gangs.
The surge in gang-related violence has garnered nationwide attention in Denmark. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has voiced deep concern over the increasing number of incidents. ■