Protect your child from gang crime

Attempts to recruit young people often happen quietly online, through mobile phones and games with chat functions.

“It happens very quickly and in all residential areas, involving both girls and boys,” the Police explained during a well-attended parent meeting in Boden recently.

The local police in Boden, social services, and the crime prevention coordinator from the Municipality of Boden described how recruitment by criminal networks looks and how it is increasing. They also shared an overview of the current risks facing young people in Boden.

Young People Are Exploited

Young people who are still below the age of criminal responsibility are often easy for criminals to exploit. It often begins with offers of money, pizza, gifts, or status in exchange for tasks that may seem harmless at first, such as keeping watch or delivering a package.

As things escalate or if something goes wrong, it can lead to threats, sexual exploitation, violence, or humiliation on social media.

What Is Your Child Doing on Social Media?

Platforms such as Snapchat, Instagram, Roblox, and Fortnite are common places where children and young people are contacted by criminals. As a parent, it is important to know how your child uses their phone and what is happening online.

Warning signs to watch for include:

• Apps such as Signal, Wickr, and Telegram for encrypted messaging.
• Multiple user profiles in the same app.
• Small zip bags (often used for drugs).
• Small blue tablets (benzodiazepines) or tablets with a smiley face (ecstasy), which are common.
• Swish payments and withdrawals involving larger amounts, as young people are often used for money laundering (receiving money via Swish, withdrawing cash, and keeping part of it as payment).
• Cash that cannot be explained.
• Gucci caps, belts, bags, designer watches, or jewelry without explanation.
• Bringing jackets into their room.
• Washing their own clothes.
• Changing friend groups or not wanting to talk about who they spend time with.

Help Is Available

Parents at the meeting had the opportunity to ask questions and discuss concerns. They also received contact information and information about where they can turn for advice, tips, and support.

The Municipality of Boden offers the parent training program “Komet,” a communication method designed to improve contact with your teenager.

During high-risk evenings, “Boden Carents” (volunteer adults) are often present around town and have a proven calming and preventive effect. More volunteers are welcome to join. To become a member, search for Boden Carents on Facebook.

Advice for Parents

• Keep track of your child’s phone and computer use.
• Trust your instincts — your gut feeling is often right.
• Be where your children are.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions and be persistent.
• Talk with other parents.
• Spend time outside during high-risk evenings (for example with Boden Carents).
• Show your child that you are there for them.
• Contact the police or social services if you are worried — seek help early.