Decline in Open Drug Trade in Stockholm

The phenomenon of open drug scenes, characterized by public drug use and sales, has been a significant concern for law enforcement in Stockholm. These areas often experience a surge in other criminal activities, including shootings, as a result of the drug trade.

In recent years, the SSR Trygg initiative in Stockholm County--a collaborative effort involving the county administration, police, and local municipalities--has been actively mapping these drug scenes.

According to the latest review, there has been a continuous decline in the number of identified drug scenes across the city. Currently, there are 43 open drug scenes spread across seven of the 26 municipalities in the region. Notably, the total area of these scenes has shrunk, and no new locations have emerged. The reduction is substantial; three years ago, there were 64 active drug scenes.

One significant success story is Hagalund, an area in Solna known for its historical struggles with crime and drug-related activities. Recent efforts have led to the disappearance of open drug trade in Hagalund, which is no longer classified as an open drug scene. Local authorities attribute this change to a revitalization of community services and infrastructure.

Efforts to combat drug-related issues in Hagalund have included the establishment of recreational spaces such as basketball courts and improved lighting to enhance safety and visibility in public areas. Increased patrols by community support staff and security personnel have also been implemented to deter drug activities and restore public confidence.

These initiatives form part of a broader program known as Hagalundslyftet, initiated two years ago, aimed at revitalizing the neighborhood. Local leaders emphasize that the majority of Hagalund's residents are law-abiding citizens who deserve a safe environment.

Despite the progress made, Hagalund still appears on the police's list of vulnerable areas. Officials believe that there are favorable prospects for removing it from this list, although they acknowledge that the process will take time and sustained effort.

However, law enforcement officials caution that while the visible drug scenes may be diminishing, the challenges associated with drug sales have not disappeared entirely. There has been a noticeable shift in the sale of drugs from street corners to online platforms, which presents a new set of challenges.

While the move away from street sales is seen as beneficial for public safety, it also raises concerns about accessibility for users, as purchasing drugs online may be simpler for some individuals than buying them in person.