The Briefing
- 962 people were removed from the country last year, a significant increase.
- Foreign involvement in both street and online drug sales is growing.
- The dangerous synthetic drug Alpha-PVP is fueling violent behavior.
Helsinki Police have significantly increased the number of foreign nationals removed from the country as part of a new strategy to tackle organized drug crime.
Last year, authorities removed 962 people from Finland. This figure represents an increase of 331 individuals compared to the previous year. According to Helsinki Police, these measures are a direct response to the growing role of foreign nationals in the local drug trade.
Chief Superintendent Simo Kauppinen states that these removals are a vital tool for maintaining public safety. The police are prioritising cases where individuals pose an immediate threat to order. This often involves street-level dealing and the disturbances that follow.
The statistics show a clear upward trend in narcotics offenses. General drug crimes in Helsinki rose by nearly 10 percent last year, while aggravated drug offenses jumped by over 15 percent. This rising demand attracts international organized crime groups involved in manufacturing and smuggling.
Finland is currently facing a broader narcotics crisis.
A broader narcotics crisis
Finland is currently facing a broader narcotics crisis. According to recent European drug reports, Finland has consistently recorded some of the highest drug-induced mortality rates among young adults in Europe.
A major concern for the police is the rapid spread of Alpha-PVP. This synthetic stimulant causes unpredictable and often aggressive behavior in users. The police note that the trade of such substances brings violence and property crime to Helsinki’s streets.
Alpha-PVP, often known by the street name “Peukku” or internationally as “Flakka,” is a cheap synthetic cathinone. It is known for causing severe paranoia, hallucinations, and excited delirium, making it significantly more dangerous to public order than many traditional intoxicants.
Superintendent Liukku emphasizes that the main goal is to stop the growth of the user base, particularly among young people.
The police say that they are now working more closely with city officials and health authorities to break the cycle of sales and use that endangers residents.
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