Protesters detained in Helsinki following vandalism of Finnish Parliament building

Protesters who vandalized the pillars of the Finnish Parliament building have been detained on police orders and are currently held at a police facility in Pasila, Helsinki. On Wednesday, authorities arrested ten individuals, six of whom are Swedish nationals. One Finnish suspect is under 18 years old and has been released due to his minor status.

Currently, nine activists remain in custody. According to Jari Korkalainen, a chief investigator with the Helsinki police, a decision regarding any potential charges of imprisonment for the protesters has yet to be made. This decision must be finalized by noon on Saturday.

The vandalism occurred on Wednesday morning, when the pillars were splashed with red paint. This act was part of a protest organized by the climate activist group Elokapina in collaboration with Sweden’s Återställ Våtmarker.

Authorities are currently investigating the incident as a case of aggravated vandalism. Legal expert Sakari Melander from the University of Helsinki assesses that those responsible could face prison sentences. Generally, basic vandalism results in fines, but aggravated vandalism can attract imprisonment ranging from four months to four years. Melander notes that if substantial economic damage is caused, or if there is significant harm to historically or culturally valuable property, the offense may be deemed aggravated.

Typically, penalties for aggravated vandalism often result in sentences of less than a year, which are frequently served conditionally, Melander explains.