Extra security makes Kouvola station kiosk workers feel safer

Workers at the R-kioski kiosk at Kouvola railway station say they feel safer since additional security patrols began in mid-October, Yle reports. Kouvola city and VR are jointly funding the trial, which focuses on evening visits rather than round-the-clock security.

The trial follows repeated disturbances at the station, including harassment of kiosk staff. Workers say groups of young people have insulted their appearance, thrown sandwiches around the kiosk and tried to distract staff while stealing alcohol and sweets. Intoxicated adults have also caused disturbances.

The behaviour has not become physical violence, but staff say name-calling has been frequent. Authorities are also aware that people use intoxicants at the station and that drug sales take place there. Spending time in a public place such as the station is allowed.

Workers say the number of young people near the kiosk has fallen since the extra security began. A guard checks in with staff and monitors the station’s waiting area. The workers caution that their experience so far covers only about two weeks, and larger groups have tended to gather at the heated station during severe winter cold.

Kouvola youth services plan to visit the station periodically during the winter, and police will also attend more often. The security trial runs until the end of February. Kouvola city, VR, the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency, police and the wellbeing services county will then assess whether conditions have improved and whether further measures are needed.