Three teenagers suspected of vandalizing buses in Turku, Finland

In Turku, Finland, authorities are investigating the vandalism of several buses attributed to three 15-year-old children. Juhani Malmberg, an investigator with the Southwest Finland Police, confirmed that the case is being treated as property damage. The transportation company involved is seeking over €10,000 in damages from the alleged perpetrators.

Reports of this unusual act of vandalism surfaced in September, when at least eight buses operated by Föli, the local public transport service, were found defaced with graffiti. The vandalism affected vehicles from two different transport companies. Kimmo Hakala, head of traffic at Jalo Liikenne Oy, explained that, in addition to the cleaning costs, the buses had to be taken out of service for cleaning, necessitating the rental of replacement vehicles. Some of the bus seats even required replacement.

According to Malmberg, efforts are being made to reach a settlement in the matter. He noted that the suspects have expressed remorse. Tatu Hyttinen, an assistant professor of criminal law at the University of Turku, previously mentioned that individuals under 15 do not face criminal charges, yet they are still liable for damages.

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