Police warn of far right radicalisation after racist violence in Pirkanmaa

Racist or ideological motives have been linked to violent crimes in the Pirkanmaa region, Yle reports. The Central Finland Police Department has warned of the radicalisation of young people into far right violent extremism.

The police say the phenomenon particularly affects people aged 15 to 25 and is connected to rising youth crime and support for extremist movements in Finland and Europe.

Police have observed signs that young people who admire the ideology are drawing influences from far right online material and incorporating them into their own behaviour. The department is closely monitoring the role of youth groups and individual offenders in crimes.

The police are concerned that groups promoting violent ideas are recruiting increasingly young children. Recruitment takes place in schools and through hobbies and fan activities.

Finding like minded people online is easy, and online contacts can quickly lead to face to face meetings. Police say adults and authorities therefore need to identify changes in young people’s behaviour at an early stage.

Changes in behaviour, clothing, interest in violence or social networks may point to far right, racist or other radical ideas. However, such signs can be difficult to distinguish from ordinary adolescent turmoil or symptoms connected to difficult life situations.

Parents, guardians and other responsible adults are urged to take an interest in what young people do online, in their free time and at school. The police advise adults to discuss concerns directly and without judgement, ask about the young person’s thoughts and provide a safe space to talk.

A racist motive or a crime committed as part of a group may be considered an aggravating factor when a court determines the sentence.