Espoo robbery series: over 20 robberies, more than a dozen youths suspected
Western Uusimaa Police are investigating over 20 robberies in Espoo – the activity resembles street gang operations. More than a dozen suspects, aged 15–22, are under investigation.
Espoo robbery series points to street gang activity – victims threatened with machete blades
Western Uusimaa Police have stated in a press release that a series of robberies that occurred in Espoo during the autumn appears to be street gang-type activity. According to Yle.fi, police suspect the series involves over 20 robberies.
The robberies have taken place in different parts of Espoo, particularly in Espoonlahti and Kilo. Victims have been attacked upon arriving at pre-arranged meetings – usually drug deal-related encounters agreed upon via mobile application.
In many cases, victims have been threatened with machete blades. Some have been slashed with sharp weapons during robberies, and several have been seriously injured. Last week, a suspected aggravated assault was recorded in Espoo city centre and a suspected attempted murder in Kilo – both cases are part of the same criminal whole.
According to police, victims have often been persons from outside the area. The suspects share an immigrant background, and despite their young age, many have lengthy criminal histories.
The preliminary investigation has so far identified more than a dozen suspects, aged 15–22. The robberies have been committed in different compositions. Several suspects are detained, subject to intensive travel bans, or under child protection measures.
Western Uusimaa Police have intensified their surveillance in the most active areas and continue the investigation in cooperation with the Helsinki Police Department's street gang investigation unit.
Source: Google News FI — Crime (fi)