Organized shoplifters stole tens of thousands of euros worth of brand-name clothing across Finland

Southwest Finland Police are investigating a series of professional shoplifting incidents in which thieves stole high-value brand-name jackets, shoes, and accessories worth tens of thousands of euros. The crimes were committed in groups of one to three people, primarily in the Turku region but also in Helsinki and Oulu.

According to Detective Inspector Tommi Kosunen, most of the thefts occurred in Turku and nearby areas such as Raisio and Kaarina. The thieves operated systematically, targeting large shopping centers and using tools to remove security tags from merchandise. The most active period for the thefts was between May last year and February this year.

One suspect, a 50-year-old Belarusian national, was arrested in late February and remains in pre-trial detention. Authorities found stolen goods, burglary tools, and multiple forged identity documents in his possession. The man has admitted to at least 25 separate thefts, as well as violating an entry ban and document forgery.

Kosunen noted that cross-border and mobile criminal activity of this nature occurs periodically, often targeting stores selling brand-name products. The suspects frequently change locations to reduce the risk of capture. The investigation is ongoing, with prosecutors expected to review the case in early April.