Riots in Sweden linked to criminal gangs who target police, say authorities

Cars are engulfed by flames after protests broke out in Malmo (Johan Nilsson/TT via AP)

Swedish police said on Monday that the riots that have shaken several cities and towns in the Nordic country are extremely serious crimes against society and suspect some protesters are linked to criminal gangs that intentionally target police.

Sweden, a nation of 10 million, has seen unrest, scuffles, arson and violence since Thursday that has left some police officers and protesters injured. It was triggered by Danish far-right politician Rasmus Paludan’s meetings and planned Koran burnings across the country.