Horse farmer’s hay bales slashed in Kontiolahti

A horse farmer in Kontiolahti, eastern Finland, has reported that over 120 round bales of hay were systematically slashed with a bladed weapon, destroying the harvest. The damage is estimated at up to €12,000, Yle reports.

Saga Pouta, who runs a small equestrian business, received the news from a neighbour on Monday morning. The bales had been intact the previous evening. Upon inspection, she found the plastic wrapping cut and the hay scattered, making recovery impossible.

Pouta, a national-level western rider, said the cuts were deliberate and showed knowledge of how to maximise damage. She has filed a police report. Authorities are asking for any information on potential suspects.

The cost of replacing the hay alone could reach €12,000, with additional losses from wasted materials, fuel, and labour. Pouta noted that the work required to produce hay is often underestimated.