Police suspect cocaine network brought more than 12 kilos to Lahti

Police suspect a cocaine distribution network brought more than 12 kilograms of the drug to Lahti, with young lower-level sellers helping distribute it, Yle reports.

The Häme Police Department has completed a preliminary investigation into an alleged cocaine network that operated in central Lahti and Mukkula for almost a year during 2025 and 2026.

Police suspect one person led the systematic procurement and distribution operation. Cocaine was repeatedly collected from the Helsinki metropolitan area and distributed in the Lahti region through young sellers.

According to the investigation, batches of about 200 grams were brought to Lahti roughly once a week. Police consider it possible that more than 12 kilograms were brought to the city during the period under investigation.

At least nine people are suspected in the case. Most were born between 2004 and 2008, while the youngest suspect was born in 2010.

Cash and cocaine seized in searches

Police carried out several searches of homes during the investigation. About 84 grams of cocaine, divided into packages ready for sale, was seized from an apartment in central Lahti.

Nearly 14,000 euros in cash was also found at the main suspect’s family home. Police suspect the money came from drug dealing.

Police said the drugs were sold particularly through Snapchat and Telegram. Investigators found messages, photographs and videos indicating that cocaine was marketed in sales groups and private messages.

The investigation also uncovered other suspected crimes, including assaults, robberies, thefts and the possession of bladed weapons in public places. Those offences are being investigated separately.

Police report rising cocaine use in Lahti

Detective Chief Inspector Toni Käyhkö said police had observed an increase in cocaine use and drug possession offences in the Päijät-Häme region in recent years.

Wastewater studies published on Thursday by the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare also indicate that cocaine use has increased in Finland. The studies show a clear upward trend in the Lahti region.

Police said the completed preliminary investigation supports the picture emerging from the wastewater studies. The case is expected to be submitted for consideration of charges in the coming weeks.