Police Officer Assaulted at Frölunda Square in Gothenburg
By The Editors
A police officer was viciously attacked while performing a routine inspection on a 25-year-old man at Frölunda Square in Gothenburg. The incident occurred when the individual became violent during the check.
According to Jens Andersson, the police spokesperson, “We controlled him and then he became messy and violent. When we tried to gain control, a policeman was kneed in the face.” The man was swiftly apprehended by fellow officers at the scene and is now being held in custody. He is facing charges of violence against an official.
The injured police officer was immediately taken to the hospital by her colleagues. Reports suggest that her injuries are not severe. The Gothenburg police issued a statement affirming this, stating that “the injuries are described as minor.”
This incident has prompted the government to reevaluate the penalties for violence against civil servants. A cabinet meeting held on February 2 resulted in the decision to task an investigator with proposing constitutional amendments that would increase the punishment for violence or threats against civil servants. Furthermore, the government seeks to introduce a new crime specifically addressing insults against civil servants. The investigator has been given until January 1, 2024, to submit the proposals.
Currently, the penalty for violence or threats against an official is a fine or a maximum of two years imprisonment. The government is also considering extending enhanced criminal protection to more professional groups, such as healthcare staff, social service staff, rescue service staff, and education staff within the school system and the university. This move aims to provide these individuals with the same level of protection that police officers currently receive.
Minister of Social Services Camilla Waltersson Grönvall emphasized the importance of this measure, stating, “Employees in social services must be able to carry out their important work without being afraid of threats or violence. With this tightening, we give employees better opportunities to focus on their work in supporting and protecting children.” Education Minister Mats Person also expressed support, saying, “Educational staff in the school system and the university should not have to put up with hatred and threats.”
The government’s proposed amendments and extended protection for civil servants serve to ensure the safety and well-being of those dedicated to public service.