Copenhagen police enhance safety measures amid gang violence

Copenhagen Police are currently focused on enhancing safety in the city, which has been affected by what they describe as a violent conflict between two gang factions. This conflict resulted in a man’s death and a woman’s injury from gunfire last Thursday in the Nørrebro district of Copenhagen. In response, the police established search zones in Nørrebro, Frederiksberg, and a section of Amager the following day, aiming to “secure citizens’ safety.” Since then, there has been a significant police presence in these areas.

Police Inspector Tommy Laursen acknowledged the community’s concerns, stating, “I can understand why residents feel unsafe when there are shootings on the streets, but we are here in large numbers to address those concerns.” So far, the search zones, which allow police to inspect individuals without specific suspicion, have led to the seizure of a loaded firearm, five knives, and one pepper spray after 152 searches. Several individuals have been charged with weapon possession, including a 15-year-old boy found with the loaded weapon, who is now in custody.

The implementation of search zones allows police to inspect people’s bodies, clothing, belongings, and vehicles for a limited time, with the goal of ensuring that individuals are not carrying weapons. Laursen noted that the police presence is intended not only to reassure the public but also to deter criminal activity.

He urged citizens to report any unusual activity in their neighborhoods, emphasizing that local residents have a better understanding of their communities than the police. The police aim to de-escalate tensions and restore normalcy in Copenhagen as swiftly as possible.