Police seize hundreds of firearms and explosives in Kouvola probe, three suspects detained

Police in South-East Finland wrapped up an extensive firearms and explosives investigation centred on Kouvola, seizing about a hundred rifles, thousands of rounds, weapon parts, various explosives and material belonging to the Defence Forces. The probe was triggered when a man reported two stolen guns, leading officers to a Voikka property where 94 guns were found, far exceeding the 58 licences the owner held. A former Defence Forces staff sergeant was apprehended after a civilian observed him moving items from the site, and he was charged with aggravated theft and a breach of a police-imposed restriction.

A third individual, who arrived during the search claiming to look for his own property, was also suspected of repeated break-ins and theft. Home raids at the suspects’ residences in Koria and Kuusankoski uncovered additional illegal firearms, large quantities of ammunition and explosives, including weapons previously reported stolen. All three lack licences for the weapons found, and the aggravated-theft charges have been reduced to theft, with further accusations of firearms and explosives crimes. Prosecutors in Eastern Finland will soon consider formal charges.