Unlawful entries into MPs' residences: police investigate around 20 cases
Helsinki police are investigating several suspected unlawful entries into the homes of Members of Parliament as attempted aggravated theft. No signs of forced entry were found in the residences and nothing has been stolen.
Police launch preliminary investigation into entries into MPs' homes
Helsinki police are investigating several cases in which Members of Parliament suspect their homes were entered without authorisation during their absence. According to Ilta-Sanomat, there have been approximately 20 cases, and they are currently being investigated as attempted aggravated theft.
The preliminary investigation is centralised at Helsinki police, which is cooperating with Parliament, the Central Criminal Police and, if necessary, the Security Police. Police initially received information about the cases through Parliament.
In a statement, police said it does not assess the possible background, perpetrators or motives of the incidents whilst the investigation is ongoing. The investigation is proceeding by hearing the persons concerned and conducting other investigative measures.
Initial information about the matter became public when it emerged that a meeting had been held in Parliament on Thursday 24 September, in which group leaders were warned of possible intrusions. The meeting was chaired by Vice-Speaker Paula Risikko (kok).
Speaker of Parliament Jussi Halla-aho (ps), Vice-Speaker Risikko and Security Director Aaro Toivonen held a press briefing for the media on 1 October. According to Halla-aho, the Speakers' Office had become aware of suspicions that some MPs' residences had been entered during their absence. There were no signs of forced entry in the residences and nothing had been stolen, but marks had been left in the homes.
Prime Minister Petteri Orpo (kok) has assessed that foreign state influence is very likely behind the incidents. The Security Police's communications also confirmed that the service is aware of the suspected intrusions.
One MP reported in early October that they did not notice the intrusion immediately. Attention was drawn only to an unflushed toilet — alarm bells only began to ring later. The cases span a longer period of time.
Source: Ilta-Sanomat