Finnish Police Detain Two Suspects in Alleged Ministry of Defence Financial Crime

Two Finnish nationals were taken into custody on Wednesday, 1st September 2021, by the Finnish police on allegations of financial offences related to transactions involving the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine.

Investigation Overview

The Finnish National Police have stated that the investigation is ongoing, although they have not disclosed the nature of the transactions or the suspected financial crimes. They began the probe based on “suspicious purchases” made by the defendants.

International Cooperation

The Finnish police have acknowledged working with their Ukrainian counterparts and obtaining assistance from various international partners, including Europol and Interpol, in the investigation process.

Suspects’ Identities & Current Status

The names and ages of the suspects have not been released to the public yet. They were detained in separate locations within Finland and are currently in police custody, undergoing questioning and further investigation. The police did not specify when the alleged financial transactions had occurred or when the initial suspicions were aroused.

Previous Similar Cases

This is not the first time the Finnish police have investigated financial crimes related to the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence. In 2020, two Finnish nationals were arrested in Rovaniemi on suspicion of illegally buying and selling military equipment. These individuals were later identified as supplying weapons to secessionist fighters in the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine.

Contacting the Police

The Finnish police have requested anyone with relevant information regarding the case to contact them. Tipsters can remain anonymous.

On-going Updates

This story is evolving, and further updates will be published as more information becomes available.