Authorities are investigating the fall of two flying devices, with the Southeast Finland Police Department leading the operation.
The National Bureau of Investigation (KRP) has opened a preliminary investigation into the incidents, initially classifying them as aggravated endangerment of the public. The Border Guard is handling a parallel investigation into a possible territorial violation. Both the Defence Forces and the Border Guard are supporting the police with their specialized capabilities.
– The investigation is still in its early stages. At this point, we are conducting technical examinations as far as possible. While the case is currently being treated as aggravated endangerment of the public, the classification may change as the investigation progresses, said Chief Inspector Olli Töyräs, lead investigator at KRP.
– Our main priority is to determine the origin of the flying devices and why they ended up in Finnish territory. We are working closely with the Border Guard and international partners to get a full understanding of the situation, added Robin Lardot, head of the National Bureau of Investigation.
The incidents came to light on Sunday, 29 March, when police received a report at 10:04 a.m. of a flying device that had fallen in the terrain north of Kouvola in Kymenlaakso. Later, at 12:27 p.m., a second device was reported to have fallen in Luumäki, South Karelia.
The Southeast Finland Police Department has cordoned off the affected areas and carried out necessary evacuations. So far, no injuries or significant property damage have been reported. Police cordons remain in place at the sites.
– Fortunately, the sites are sparsely populated. Technical investigations cannot yet be conducted because safety at the scene must be ensured first, said Deputy Police Chief Pekka Koistinen, who is leading the operation.
Authorities also stress that any debris from the devices found in the terrain should not be touched and must be reported immediately to the police.
– The cooperation between authorities has been excellent. Finland is prepared nationwide for incidents of this kind, said Police Chief Ari Karvonen of the Southeast Finland Police Department.
