The Helsinki police have become aware of a large number of pickpocketing incidents against tourists in the centre of Helsinki, said police in a press release on Tuesday.
Police have observed that pickpockets operate in large groups and their activities are professional.
The pickpockets are particularly interested in cash in the possession of tourists. The suspects commit crimes in groups and the stolen goods are quickly transferred from one person to another.
Police already arrested several foreign nationals, who arrived in Finland from Eastern Europe in this connection and took measures to deport them.
“Several suspected professional pickpockets have been arrested by the police. All of those arrested are foreign nationals who arrived in Finland from Eastern Europe. The suspects are being deported from Finland under the Aliens Act because they are considered a threat to public order and safety", said Detective Superintendent Jari Illukka.
The period between May and September, when there are many tourists in Helsinki, is the busiest for pickpockets. Pickpocketing is concentrated between 10.00 a.m. and 3.00 p.m.
“The police will intensify their surveillance of pickpockets in Helsinki's tourist areas during the summer”, said Inspector Hanna Kiiskinen.
- Pickpocketing
- Rises
- Helsinki
Source: www.dailyfinland.fi
