Finnish MPs Raise Alarm Over Suspected Intrusions Into Their Homes

HELSINKI: Finnish police have opened a criminal investigation after several members of parliament reported suspicions that someone had entered their homes without permission. The cases are provisionally being investigated as attempted aggravated theft, Helsinki police said on 7 October.

One MP told Yle that the cover of an electrical socket was lying on the floor when they returned home. On another occasion, a panel from the base of a kitchen cabinet had been removed and left in the middle of the floor. The MP suspects someone entered the apartment on both occasions.

Initially, the politician assumed a maintenance worker had visited and forgotten to leave a note. Reports of similar suspicions among other MPs prompted them to reconsider and contact parliament’s security department.

Other lawmakers have reported finding doors open or lights switched on without an explanation. According to Yle’s reporting on 2 October, there were fewer than 20 suspected incidents over roughly a year. At that point, no signs of forced entry or theft had been reported.

Concerns reach Finland’s leadership

Speaker of Parliament Jussi Halla-aho confirmed on 1 October that the suspicions involved a substantial number of MPs from different parties. He said lawmakers had found indications that someone might have entered their homes while they were away.

The concerns prompted discussions at the highest levels of government. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo received a briefing from security authorities on 2 October. He said the government took the matter seriously because incidents directed at parliament also affected the heart of Finland’s democracy.

That same day, President Alexander Stubb and the government’s foreign and security policy committee discussed the observations concerning MPs’ security.

Police investigate what happened

Police initially launched a preliminary inquiry. The criminal investigation announced on 7 October moves the cases into an investigation of suspected offences.

Helsinki police are leading the investigation in cooperation with parliament and Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation. Supo, the country’s civilian security and intelligence service, will be involved if needed.

Investigators say it is too early to assess who might be responsible, their motives or the background to the incidents. They are continuing with interviews of those concerned and other investigative work. Police have said they will provide their next update on 14 October.