Police uncover suspected cannabis operation in Helsinki region

Helsinki police have uncovered a group suspected of growing and selling cannabis in the Finnish capital region, Yle reports.

Police suspect 15 people of aggravated drug offences, money laundering and tax offences. Eleven were detained during the investigation, and three remain in custody.

The group is suspected of growing nearly 100 kilograms of marijuana between 2019 and 2026, with an estimated street value of about two million euros.

Police believe most of the cannabis was grown in a large detached house rented by one of the suspects. Other members of the group allegedly grew cannabis in a rented garage and in their own homes.

Thousands spent on equipment

Police traced the suspects through criminal intelligence and covert investigative measures used in investigations into organised and professional drug crime.

The suspects developed their growing equipment and methods over an extended period in an effort to maximise the amount of drugs produced, said Janne Ylinenpää, the police detective chief leading the investigation.

One suspect told police that tens of thousands of euros had been spent on equipment and plant nutrients alone.

During the preliminary investigation, police seized nearly 14 kilograms of marijuana and tens of thousands of euros in cash.

According to the investigation, money from drug sales was laundered by several people through several companies. Some of the companies were registered abroad.

The investigation also uncovered aggravated tax offences linked to the activities of a company used for money laundering and its responsible official.

The preliminary investigation is expected to be completed shortly, after which the case will be referred for consideration of charges.