Southwest Finland Police Seize Drugs, Cash, and Firearms in Major Operation
Southwest Finland Police conducted a 10-day intensive surveillance operation in April targeting street-level drug trade in Turku, Salo, Uusikaupunki, and Loimaa. The operation led to the seizure of narcotics, over €30,000 in cash, and four unlicensed firearms, as well as the apprehension of multiple suspects, including underage offenders.
Large Quantities of Drugs and Cash Discovered
During the operation, police found significant quantities of illegal substances, including cocaine, marijuana, amphetamine, and prescription medications classified as narcotics. Notably, no alpha-PVP—the synthetic stimulant known colloquially as "peukku"—was detected (Iltalehti).
In Uusikaupunki, authorities arrested a man suspected of selling narcotic pharmaceuticals. A search of his residence uncovered nearly 2,000 tablets of Subutex, Alprasafe, Xanax, and Rivotril, along with over €18,000 in cash. The total cash seized during home searches across the operation exceeded €30,000, believed to be proceeds from drug sales (Ilta-Sanomat).
Underage Offenders and Social Media’s Role
Many of those apprehended during the operation were underage first-time offenders. Police highlighted that young people are increasingly directed to drug trade via the Telegram messaging app, where groups facilitate the sale of illegal substances.
"Young people encounter drugs not only through social media but also through friends, hobbies, and events. Hardly anyone can avoid them these days," said Senior Constable Janne Aro-Heinilä of the Southwest Finland Police Department’s preventive unit (Ilta-Sanomat). When investigating drug use offenses, police assess whether individuals require treatment guidance.
Illegal Firearms and Tobacco Sales Also Targeted
In addition to narcotics, police discovered four unlicensed firearms during home searches. The operation also addressed other criminal activities, including the illegal sale of tobacco and e-cigarettes (vapes). An underage boy was found in possession of dozens of vapes, nicotine pouches, and tobacco products, leading to suspicions of smuggling and tobacco sales offenses. The boy was also found carrying brass knuckles and a knife (Ilta-Sanomat).
Public Encouraged to Report Suspicious Activity
Southwest Finland Police urge the public to report tips related to drug trade via email at vihjeet.lounais-suomi@poliisi.fi or through the online form at poliisi.fi/nettivinkki.
