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Helsinki Police have warned that organised pickpocketing teams have begun operating in central tourist areas as the summer travel season gets underway.
The suspects, described as professional thieves from Eastern Europe, have been seen working in groups in popular sites such as Market Square, Uspenski Cathedral and Alexanterinkatu, a busy shopping street in the city centre.
Police Inspector Hanna Kiiskinen said the offenders typically work in coordinated teams to distract their victims.
“One thief may bump into the tourist while another removes valuables such as wallets or smartphones,” said Kiiskinen. “The thefts happen quickly and often in daylight.”
Though the incidents are not typically violent, police say the criminals are experienced and efficient. The aim is to avoid confrontation and escape before the victim notices the loss.
Police patrols are now focusing on key locations that attract high tourist footfall. Officers have already detained several suspects this spring. All are believed to be from outside Finland, with authorities noting their country of origin as being in Eastern Europe.
According to police, the suspects are usually deported under Finland’s Aliens Act, which permits removal if a person is judged to threaten public order or safety.
Pickpocketing incidents also tend to rise during winter tourist events such as Helsinki’s Christmas Market, marking what police describe as a “seasonal trend” in street-level crime.
Authorities advise visitors to keep valuables secure and remain alert in crowded areas.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
