Police report an increase in the numbers of juveniles being hired to carry out crimes in Norway, including murder. They’re being called “child soldiers” for criminal gangs exploiting how the youngsters can’t always be held liable for their acts.
It’s long been a problem in Sweden that has crossed the border to Norway. In March a 16-year-old Norwegian was arrested and charged with planning the murder of the son of a high-ranking police official. Newspaper Aftenposten reported that another young Norwegian had been arrested shortly after that and charged in the UK with operating on behalf of a Swedish criminal network.
It’s part of a trend called “violence as a service” by the European police agency Europol, and is now included in the threats facing police. Youngsters have been paid to carry out murders, attempted murders, use of explosives and other violent acts, but can’t always be prosecuted or jailed because they’re underaged.
Police are now calling on parents to react if they find their child using encrypted communication, suddenly have older friends, are caught lying more often or suddenly have more money. Parents are also urged to seek help, either from teachers, social workers or police.
NewsinEnglish.no staff
