Youths gather at Birsta City shopping center during school break

During the school break, hundreds of young people have been gathering daily at the Birsta City shopping center in Sundsvall, Sweden. Timmy Henriksson, a security guard at the center, says the youths are between 12 and 18 years old and expresses concern that the shopping area is becoming like a youth recreation center. He believes reasons for the gatherings include a lack of money, a lack of activities, or a lack of interest in other activities, with some youths saying there is not much to do in Sundsvall, especially for those aged 16-18.

Henriksson suggests the municipality should take more responsibility to provide alternatives. Security guards at the center have a role in maintaining public order and safety, complementing police work, and operate under police leadership.