SpongeBob lookalikes disrupt rapper Sliki’s shows across Finland

People dressed as Freakbob, a crude-humour meme character based on SpongeBob SquarePants, have disrupted rap artist Sliki’s shows around Finland this autumn, Yle reports. The incidents have been linked to social media personality Ossi Ketola, who denies involvement.

The disruptions began in September at a surprise show in Sastamala featuring Sliki, whose real name is Jan Vikman, and rapper Korelon. Ketola organised the event in his hometown, where money was handed out to the audience. A person dressed as SpongeBob was also seen there. Ilta-Sanomat reported that the person was Ketola, but he told Aamulehti he had not been at the event.

After the show, Sliki and Korelon said they had learned about Ketola’s background. They apologised for performing and publicly distanced themselves from racism and discrimination. Ketola has become known for racist remarks and attended a September demonstration by the nationalist Sinimusta movement, carrying an anti-immigration sign while dressed as SpongeBob.

Freakbob characters have appeared at Sliki’s shows since the Sastamala event. Police have been visibly present at several performances to prevent further disruption. Videos of incidents have circulated on anonymous social media accounts seeking attention for the phenomenon.

Police have intervened in incidents in several Finnish towns, including Vihti, Helsinki, Kankaanpää, Oulu, Kuopio, Kotka and Imatra. In the latest reported case, four minors dressed as SpongeBob tried to disrupt a Sliki show in Nummela, in Vihti, on Friday. Police and a security guard removed them. Police are investigating the security guard on suspicion of assaulting a minor during the incident.

In Oulu in late October, about 10 young people in Freakbob costumes tried to disrupt a show. They ran away when police attempted to speak with them, and none is suspected of a crime, according to the police. In September, the characters interrupted a Sliki performance at the Las Palmas bar in Kotka. In several incidents, they have tried to force their way into venues. Police have not given details about the disruptive behaviour.

At least in the Oulu and Vihti incidents, those dressed as Freakbob were minors or around 20 years old.