Finnish police uncover human trafficking network using coercive control

Police in Oulu have exposed a human trafficking network where victims, primarily homeless and substance-dependent individuals, were subjected to coercive control—a severe form of psychological abuse that strips victims of autonomy and forces dependence on their abusers.

The investigation began in June 2024 after officers discovered a windowless room in a Kajaani garage, containing only a bare mattress on the floor and no sanitation. A homeless man had been held there, forced to work at a local stable and coerced into criminal activity against his will.

As the case unfolded, police identified additional victims across Finland, all allegedly exploited through coercive control. Unlike traditional sex or labor trafficking, this method relies on psychological domination rather than physical force.

In one case, a man in Kajaani was found with no memory of recent months. Investigators later discovered loans and credit cards totaling over €100,000 had been taken out in his name. Rikoskomisario Kimmo Tuulenkari, the lead investigator, described the victim as being used “like a tool for committing crimes.”

A third case has already reached court, where prosecutors allege that a Finnish woman living in Sweden was lured to Finland under the pretense of breaking her drug addiction. Instead, she was taken to a bank to open an account, and the suspects took out a €60,000 loan in her name, which was never repaid. Prosecutors argue this marks the first time in Finland that individuals have been charged with human trafficking for using unwitting proxies—known as “bulvaani”—to commit crimes.

Coercive control, though not currently a standalone crime, can meet the criteria for human trafficking under existing law. However, experts argue it is difficult to prove. A recent report commissioned by the Ministry of Justice proposes adding coercive control as a distinct offense in the criminal code. Julia Korkman, an associate professor of legal psychology, supports the measure, noting that while convictions are possible under current laws, the lack of explicit recognition makes prosecution harder.

Yle first reported the investigation.