Police investigate masked attackers in Tampere May Day march violence

Finnish police are examining video footage of an assault during a far-right May Day march in Tampere after masked participants attacked a counter-protester, public broadcaster Yle reports.

The incident occurred during a parade organised by the far-right Sinimusta liike (Blue-Black Movement) on Friday, where several marchers violently confronted a counter-demonstrator, causing facial injuries. Police confirmed they are treating the attack as aggravated assault and are analysing recordings to identify suspects, though many had concealed their faces.

Ylikomisario Ari Aro of the Central Finland Police Department told Yle that while officers prevented larger clashes through their visible presence, the unprovoked attack on the counter-protester was “condemnable.” He also urged demonstrators to avoid direct confrontation with opposing groups to reduce risks.

Seven people were detained during the event—four linked to counter-protests and three to a separate “White May Day” gathering—but all were released by Friday evening. Two were reported for resisting police, and one for possessing a dangerous object. Additional arrests occurred after the march dispersed in the city centre.

Authorities are also investigating reports that marchers used a torch to set a banner alight, a prohibited act in public processions. Aro confirmed no injuries resulted from the incident but said reckless handling of flammable objects would be examined as a potential offence.

The Sinimusta liike, described by media as openly racist and fascist, drew around 200 participants to its march. Prior to the event, the far-right combat sports network Active Club—known for black clothing and face coverings—publicly announced its involvement via social media. Counter-protesters, including the “Tampere Without Nazis” collective, had planned a simultaneous anti-fascist demonstration but did not notify police, as in previous years.