A recent wave of arrests involving teenagers and organized crime has raised concerns among experts, but they say this is not a new phenomenon.
According to Montreal police, there have been several arrests of teenagers in connection with organized crime activities in recent weeks. This has sparked discussions about the involvement of young people in criminal organizations.
However, experts in the field of organized crime say that this is not a new trend. In fact, they argue that youth involvement in organized crime has been a longstanding issue.
“It’s not a new phenomenon, it’s been going on for decades,” said Pierre de Champlain, a retired RCMP analyst and author of several books on organized crime.
De Champlain explains that criminal organizations often target vulnerable youth who are looking for a sense of belonging and financial gain. These young people are often lured in with promises of money, power, and protection.
“They’re looking for a sense of belonging, they’re looking for a sense of identity, and they’re looking for a sense of power,” de Champlain said.
He also points out that the rise of social media has made it easier for criminal organizations to recruit young people. With the click of a button, they can reach a large number of potential recruits and entice them with the allure of a glamorous lifestyle.
But it’s not just about recruitment. Experts say that young people are also being used by criminal organizations to carry out illegal activities, such as drug trafficking and money laundering.
“They’re being used as mules, they’re being used as couriers, they’re being used as lookouts,” said Antonio Nicaso, a Toronto-based organized crime expert.
Nicaso also notes that the involvement of young people in organized crime is not limited to Canada. It is a global issue that requires a multi-faceted approach to address.
In response to the recent arrests, Montreal police have launched a new initiative called “Project Magot” to target organized crime groups and their recruitment of young people. The project aims to educate young people about the dangers of getting involved in criminal activities and to provide them with resources to help them make better choices.
While experts agree that this is a step in the right direction, they also stress the importance of addressing the root causes of youth involvement in organized crime, such as poverty, lack of opportunities, and social exclusion.
In conclusion, while the recent wave of arrests involving teenagers and organized crime may be concerning, it is not a new issue. It is a complex problem that requires a comprehensive approach to effectively address it. By understanding the factors that contribute to youth involvement in organized crime and implementing targeted interventions, we can work towards preventing and reducing this troubling trend.
