Authorities investigate two Swedish citizens for alleged violent crime preparation in Vantaa

Authorities in Finland are investigating two Swedish citizens suspected of preparing for serious violent crimes. The individuals, a 21-year-old man and a 30-year-old woman, were arrested in October and November, on charges related to the preparation of severe crimes against individuals’ safety and possible explosives offenses. The man was detained on November 14, while the woman was apprehended on October 17, according to a ruling by the Eastern Uusimaa District Court.

The alleged offenses took place between September 3 and September 11 in Vantaa. The lead investigator, Masi Puolakka, a police inspector from the Helsinki Police’s unit for professional crime, has kept details about the investigation limited due to its early stage. The investigation was triggered through the police’s own efforts. Authorities are currently questioning the suspects and continuing their inquiries, without confirming whether additional suspects are involved or if gang activity is related to the case.

The male suspect was previously arrested in Sweden earlier in October, having been listed as absent from the court. After a Nordic arrest order was issued, he was detained in Sweden on November 6 and subsequently extradited to Finland, where he is currently held in custody in Turku. The woman, detained in Finland, is being held at Vaasa prison. Her lawyer has stated that she denies any involvement in the alleged crimes, asserting that she was unaware of any plans for such actions.

Both suspects are reportedly residing near Gothenburg, with the man having prior convictions related to drug offenses and driving under the influence, while no prior criminal history is noted for the woman. Finnish police are collaborating with the Eastern Uusimaa police, the National Bureau of Investigation, and Swedish authorities in this case.