Young adults distributing vapes to minors in Kajaani schools

Young adults in Kajaani are reportedly distributing vapes, or electronic cigarettes, to minors in schools. According to Vice Principal Liisa Halonen, such transactions involve not only sales but also extortion, bullying, and intimidation. The Lehtikankaan school has gathered evidence of this activity through its extensive camera surveillance system, which includes 174 cameras capturing footage of the sales.

Halonen noted, “Money brings along unpleasant activities like intimidation and bullying. I fear that extortion is also involved.” Evidence collected has led the school to file child protection or criminal law reports regarding incidents involving the sale and purchase of nicotine products.

The use of vapes and nicotine pouches among students is reportedly increasing, with the smell of vaporized tobacco noticeable in restrooms and hallways. Used nicotine pouches have even been found stuck under school desks. This situation has made recess chaotic and has raised concerns that nicotine is affecting students’ focus during classes.

Problems seem particularly concentrated in school restrooms. Halonen reported that middle schoolers often attempt to sneak out during lessons to vape. Student Kalle Heikkinen observed that some students go to the restroom to vape during class time. Another student, Mico Karjalainen, mentioned that the restroom is a popular spot for vaping because it provides more privacy. Some students have reportedly hidden and used vapes easily so as not to get caught.

In addition, nicotine pouches are being hidden in creative places such as under toilet brush cups, with used pouches shared or sold among peers. The school confiscates any nicotine products found and offers to return them to parents if requested, but does not allow students to reclaim items that are taken away.