The District Court of Helsinki has begun hearing a case involving 33 protesters facing criminal charges for participating in a protest organized by Extinction Rebellion Finland in October 2021. The protesters are accused of insubordination to the police, violation of privacy, and criminal damage.
The protesters claim the protest was lawful and took place in a public place. Some protesters affixed themselves to the Government Palace with glue and padlocks, resulting in a charge of criminal damage. Police arrested 52 people, holding 48 in custody for 28 hours.
The prosecution argues that the protesters violated the privacy of public premises and were insubordinate to the police. The defense claims the protest was peaceful and caused minimal disturbance, with no right for the police to terminate it.
The District Court will issue a verdict on 2 September 2024. The case raises questions about limiting basic rights and police handling of peaceful protests.
Stay tuned for updates on this controversial case.