Police investigate minor’s alleged online sale of explosives

Police are investigating a case in which a minor is suspected of selling imported explosives to other minors in the Oulu region, Yle reports.

The sales were conducted through WhatsApp. According to police, the products were P1-category pyrotechnic articles that are not intended for entertainment use. Selling the products to anyone under 18 is prohibited, and minors are not allowed to possess them.

The case is being investigated as an explosives offence. The suspect has admitted ordering P1-category pyrotechnic products from abroad and passing them on to other minors.

During an initial interview, police learned that the suspect had ordered hundreds of explosives online and had already sold a significant number of them. Police are aware that some of the products ended up in the possession of children as young as primary school age.

Police warn that explosives do not belong in the hands of minors and can cause serious injuries if used incorrectly. Using pyrotechnic products without an acceptable reason is generally a criminal offence for which police may issue fines.

Police say various pyrotechnic explosives are currently popular among young people and urge parents to discuss firecrackers and other explosives with their children. Minors should be told about the dangers the products pose to themselves and their surroundings, police said in a statement.