A 31-year-old man has been charged by Fyns Police for allegedly making threats against a candidate in the upcoming municipal election. The threats were reportedly made on the social media platform TikTok, and the charge follows an extensive investigation.

Fyns Police also questioned a 13-year-old boy suspected of making similar threatening statements toward the same candidate.

The candidate has reported a series of harassing incidents in traffic since October 10th, which are still under investigation by Fyns Police.

In response to these incidents, police have intensified efforts against threats directed at politicians, especially on social media, in the lead-up to the municipal election.

Police Inspector Johnny Schou of Fyns Police emphasized the importance of maintaining a respectful tone in public discourse and warned against making threats. He stated that threatening behavior is punishable, regardless of the anonymity some may feel behind a keyboard.

The National Police (Rigspolitiet) is implementing a nationwide registration of all reports of criminal behavior stemming from participation in public debate, including the destruction of election posters.

The Police’s Online Patrol (POP) will be present on selected internet forums to prevent and combat criminal harassment and threatening behavior ahead of the election on November 18th.

Additionally, the government has provided politicians experiencing harassment with a direct contact person in the police.

Signe Vedersø Keldorff, the lead candidate for the Danish People’s Party in Odense, reported receiving threats on her social media, including comments advocating violence against her.

In Sweden, politician Anna-Karin Hatt resigned as leader of the Centerpartiet due to constant threats and hate.