Swedish police received over 2,000 reports of suspected crimes against critical infrastructure last year, according to a mapping by Sveriges Radio's Ekot program. This represents double the number of reports from the previous year. A quarter of the reports involved burglary, unlawful entry, or illegal photography at protected facilities.
The increase is partly attributed to more sectors being classified as critical infrastructure, including electricity, water, and transportation systems. In many cases, individuals reportedly entered restricted areas or took photographs by mistake. Säpo (Sweden's Security Service) and police are now working to better understand the increase in reports.
authorities need to work together to detect incidents that could involve potential sabotage or other hybrid activities from Russia or other foreign powers
Säpo chief Charlotte von Essen stated that authorities need to work together to detect incidents that could involve potential sabotage or other hybrid activities from Russia or other foreign powers. According to the reports, 139 cases have led to formal charges.