Criminologist: What drives young girls to commit contract murders

An increasing number of young girls are becoming involved in contract killings in Sweden, a trend that criminologist Sven Granath notes is small but growing. While historically rare for young women to engage in serious gang-related violence, a shift has been observed since around 2023.

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The increase is small, it amounts to a few percentage points, but nevertheless, they have become more numerous.

Granath explains that the motivations for girls and boys engaging in such acts are largely similar. Financial incentives and the pursuit of thrills are significant drivers, though he speculates that managing anxiety could also play a role for both genders. The idea that gender inherently dictates such behavior may have been overestimated.

Recruitment tactics have evolved, becoming more inclusive in age and leveraging digital means. Unlike past methods of recruiting on public squares, online platforms allow access to younger individuals. The nature of the violence required often does not necessitate significant physical strength, making the primary requirement a strong driving force.

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Maybe one has overestimated the power of gender here, that it would somehow be in the genes.

Furthermore, young women may be strategically employed as they can potentially get closer to their targets, offering tactical advantages. While law enforcement is aware of this phenomenon, public vigilance remains lower. Granath points out that people might be more wary of a young man approaching than a young girl, a perception that could be exploited.

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When one recruited on suburban squares, the girls were not as accessible. Moreover, the violence that is to be carried out does not require any muscular strength. What is needed from the perpetrators is just some form of driving force.

Statistics from 2023 to 2025 show 230 girls and women suspected of involvement in gang-related violence, with the youngest being 12 years old. Notable cases include a 20-year-old woman sentenced to life for murder in October 2024, and two 14-year-old girls arrested in connection with a shooting incident in Södertälje.

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They want to make money, some seek excitement. It is speculation on my part, but it may also be a way to manage anxiety, both for the boys and the girls. The assignment becomes a task to focus on.