Sweden Democrats Seek Removal of Crime-Suspected MP from Security Oversight Boards

The Sweden Democrats have requested that party member Katja Nyberg be removed from her positions on several security oversight boards, including the Swedish Security Service's (Säpo) oversight council, according to reports from TV4 Nyheterna and Aftonbladet. This comes as Nyberg, a member of parliament and the justice committee, is reportedly under police investigation for suspected drunk driving and drug offenses following a traffic accident during the Christmas holidays.

Henrik Vinge, the Sweden Democrats' justice policy spokesperson and chair of the justice committee, stated that the request for Nyberg's removal is due to the ongoing police investigation. Meanwhile, the Social Democrats are demanding Nyberg's immediate exclusion from Säpo's oversight board, citing security concerns.

Teresa Carvalho of the Social Democrats warned that allowing someone under criminal investigation to remain on the board could create risks for blackmail and coercion, given the board's access to classified and security-sensitive information about national security. The oversight board members are appointed by the government after party nominations and have access to secret information.

Nyberg has reportedly denied the allegations in media comments, stating she does not recognize the description of the incident and welcomes the ongoing investigation. She did not participate in Thursday's justice committee meeting but has not formally left or paused her duties on the oversight boards.