Police Chief Calls for Comprehensive Strategy to Address Youth Violence and Weapon Possession in Iceland

The national police chief has emphasized the need for a dual approach in tackling youth violence and weapon possession, combining punitive measures with supportive interventions. Although the group involved in weapon-related incidents is small, the severity of their actions cannot be overlooked.

Sigríður Björk Guðjónsdóttir, the national police chief, pointed out that the increase in youth weapon possession is a growing concern not only in Iceland but across the Nordic countries as well. She noted that while the situation is worsening, weapon use and violence are not widespread among youth. However, those who do engage in such behavior tend to be younger and their attacks are more severe.

While the number of youths carrying knives is relatively small, significant incidents, such as a stabbing that occurred during the Culture Night event—resulting in the death of a 17-year-old girl and injuries to two others—highlight a serious societal issue that requires a collaborative response involving law enforcement, parents, schools, child protection services, and local governments.

Guðjónsdóttir stated that many youths carrying weapons come from difficult backgrounds and need support. She called for stricter penalties for weapon possession and suggested that fines should be increased alongside law enforcement efforts aimed at guiding at-risk youths away from violent paths.

Additionally, she advocated for an increased police presence and more community policing to effectively address these issues, highlighting that the police force is in the process of doubling its recruitment efforts to better equip itself for the challenges ahead.