Three teenage boys in southern Sweden face charges for allegedly seeking murder contracts through encrypted apps. Prosecutors say the teens contacted criminal networks to arrange killings.
Police discovered the murder plots after cracking a 14-year-old's mobile phone. The plans never reached execution stage.
Emma Sjöbeck, the lead prosecutor, stated her belief that the boys didn't originate the murder plans themselves. She said they appeared to be acting on behalf of others.
The two oldest boys, aged 15 and 17, face charges of conspiracy to commit murder. The 15-year-old allegedly accepted a contract to carry out one killing, while the 17-year-old took another contract.
The 14-year-old cannot face criminal charges under Swedish law due to his age. Instead, prosecutors filed a special procedure called 'bevistalan' to establish his guilt. His role involved arranging the murder contract for the 17-year-old.
Sweden's justice system treats offenders under 15 differently than adults. This case highlights how criminal networks increasingly recruit minors through encrypted messaging platforms.
The investigation began in Skåne county, Sweden's southernmost region. Police focused on the teens' digital communications after receiving intelligence about their activities.
This case represents a troubling trend of younger individuals being drawn into serious organized crime. The use of encrypted apps makes such investigations increasingly challenging for authorities.