Finnish police uncover international “crime-as-a-service” network after Vantaa kidnapping

A March kidnapping in Vantaa has exposed an international “crime-as-a-service” operation in Finland, where individuals were recruited to carry out criminal tasks, according to a report by Finnish public broadcaster Yle.

Helsinki Police’s street gang crime unit is finalising an investigation into the case, which reveals a model where partially unknown individuals are hired to execute assignments. Three suspects—citizens of Ireland, Estonia, and Ukraine—were arrested following the incident. Authorities believe they entered Finland separately via Estonia.

Two Finland-based individuals of Russian background allegedly orchestrated the operation using the Signal messaging app. They are suspected of arranging apartments, a vehicle, transport services, and a firearm for the crimes, as well as distributing cash payments to the perpetrators.

The case is being investigated as attempted aggravated extortion, unlawful detention, illegal threats, violation of domestic peace, and firearms offences. Police link it to street gang activity, organised crime, and a dispute over narcotics.

The intended victim, a minor, had already fled abroad before the kidnapping. When the suspects failed to locate them, they broke into the home of the victim’s brother in Vantaa, detaining him and a friend. The suspects then called the victim overseas, demanding payment. The victim managed to contact a friend in Finland, who alerted emergency services.

Police arrested three suspects at the scene; a fourth, acting as their driver, was apprehended the following day.