Finnish police suspect banned United Brotherhood crime group has resumed operations

Finnish authorities suspect that the banned criminal organisation United Brotherhood has continued its activities despite a court-ordered dissolution, national broadcaster Yle reports.

Police in eastern Finland are investigating two men in Joensuu on suspicion of operating an illegal association linked to the group. The case emerged during an investigation into aggravated assault and aggravated deprivation of liberty, where a man was allegedly beaten and threatened in a hall previously used as a clubhouse by United Brotherhood.

The 34-year-old main suspect is believed to have represented the group during the crime and used its former premises for illegal activities. A second man, aged 31, is suspected of promoting the organisation’s activities by participating in the assault.

Evidence found in former clubhouse
During a search of the premises last autumn, police noted strong red-and-black colour schemes—United Brotherhood’s signature colours—as well as a “memorial wall” featuring photos of deceased members. The number “212” (referencing the letters U and B) was also displayed on a wall.

Both suspects deny membership in the group. The 34-year-old, who police say has been involved in United Brotherhood since 2013, claimed he had no knowledge of the organisation’s post-dissolution activities. The 31-year-old admitted knowing the older suspect through family ties but denied any involvement in the group.

Background: United Brotherhood
United Brotherhood was a nationwide criminal network primarily engaged in drug trafficking and debt collection. Founded in 2010 through the merger of three gangs, it operated in seven cities with around 120 members before its dissolution in 2022. The group was known for its hierarchical structure, use of violence, and distinctive red-and-black clothing and tattoos.