Turkish-Danish ex-gangster shot dead at his book event

COPENHAGEN

A former Danish gang leader of Turkish origin died of gunshot wounds on Nov. 20 as his memoir on leaving the criminal underworld went on sale. He was shot a day earlier after an event to launch the book.

Nedim Yaşar, 31, made a name for himself as a radio host after quitting Los Guerreros (The Warriors), a Copenhagen gang involved in the drugs trade. His book, “Roots,” about pulling himself out of crime was published on Nov. 20.

At least two shots were fired at Yaşar when he was leaving the book launch on Nov. 19 by a gunman who fled the scene.

Danish Justice Minister Soren Pape Poulsen paid tribute to Yaşar, who was born in Turkey and came to Denmark at the age of four, according to Danish newspaper Politiken.

“How sad and infinitely meaningless. I met Nedim once. I met a man who with all his heart wanted to create a new life and make a difference for others. My thoughts and compassion go to his friends and family,” Poulsen tweeted.

According to Danish news agency Ritzau, Yaşar decided to leave his gang and join an exit program after he learned he was going to become a father. He often spoke of his life experiences on his radio show.

Police said Yaşar told them in 2017 he had been the victim of an attempted assault after he had quit the gang.

Denmark had a record number of gang-related shootings last year, police said.