A police raid was carried out this morning by Northern Zealand Police, Western Copenhagen Police, Task Force East and Copenhagen Police. The police visited 42 addresses believed to be involved in gang activity.

“With the raid today we have chosen to send the gangs a clear message: that we under no circumstances will accept violent conflicts which endanger neighbours and citizens,” said Copenhagen Police chief superintendent Jørgen Skov, who organised today’s raid.

After less than two hours, 13 people were arrested. 

“We arrested people who have participated in violent encounters, including attempted murder, and searched particularly for weapons and other objects which can be used as weapons,” Skov said, adding that the police would provide more details about their action later today.

Apart from arresting people today, the police talked to the young gang members and tried to convince them to leave the gang environment and get a job or start an education. The gang members were encouraged to visit the police or the City Council in order to get the help they need to move on.  

Since January 11, there have been several disturbances in the Copenhagen area's gang environment, including six shootings so far this month.

On February 28, the police carried out another raid, which resulted in seven arrests and the confiscation of weapons, ammunition and drugs. 

In connection with today's raids, the police have also decided to extend their stop-and-search ordinances in Copenhagen and Kokkedal through March 26.