Earlier in December, the Customs Service seized 1,380 liters of counterfeit vodka, in bottles almost identical to the genuine product sold at Systembolaget.
The occurrence is confirmed by the Youth Patrol in Stockholm City, which works with young people in risk environments.
We see that young people buy alcohol that appears to be normally packaged in bottles, says unit manager Pia Bodén.
It is generally not particularly difficult for young people to get hold of alcohol today.
It's a lot through social media, through various accounts on Snapchat. It's very easy for young people to get in touch, says Charlotte Sundvik, outreach social worker.
It makes it harder for us to keep track, says Pia Bodén.
"Show an interest"
So how should one think as a parent?
Talk to your young person and show an interest. Be available when they go out and have an agreement on times and talk to other parents, says Bodén.
Even though the concern about what children can get hold of on their own – such as industrial spirits – can be great, one should not buy out alcohol. In the worst case, it can lead to the child just drinking more.
It is well-documented in research that offering alcohol at home has the opposite effect.
A young person can also become very intoxicated from a bottle of wine from home. It can lead to a vulnerable but also serious medical situation.
Stay sober yourself
It is also important for parents to set a good example ahead of the New Year's weekend, urges the police in Umeå. They expect many young people to get intoxicated, which increases the risk of being involved in an accident or being subjected to a crime.
According to the police, it is therefore crucial that parents talk to their children about the risks of alcohol and about their plans for the evening, to keep in touch and to stay sober themselves in order to be able to pick up their children.
