Corrosive liquid poured on child in Vaasa

A child was seriously injured in Vaasa on Sunday after a corrosive drain-cleaning liquid was poured on them in the yard of Variska School in the Ristinummi district, Yle reports.

Police suspect two minors of aggravated assault. One suspect, under 18, was apprehended shortly after the incident. The other is under 15.

On Monday, officers discovered two viable bottle bombs on the school grounds and rendered them safe.

Local residents expressed shock. Niina Peltonen, a lifelong Ristinummi resident, said she no longer feels safe walking alone in the area at night. She recalled past incidents, including being assaulted near a former shopping centre while on her way to work.

Anna-Maija Kriikkula, another resident, criticised what she described as a worsening trend of youth crime and called for stricter laws, particularly regarding bullying and school discipline.

Salme Sulander, Vaasa’s director of education, said the school itself has a calm atmosphere but acknowledged that large gatherings of youth on weekends can escalate tensions, especially among those struggling emotionally. She advised parents to monitor their children’s whereabouts and company during free time.

Police confirmed that the investigation and interrogations are ongoing. The case is being handled by Vaasa’s anchor team, which specialises in crimes involving minors and coordinates preventive measures with youth services and guardians.