Finland: Demonstrations to take place in Turku on August 18

Event

Far-right groups have called for a demonstration to take place in the city of Turku on Saturday, August 18, to commemorate the one-year anniversary of a stabbing attack which left two people dead and eight more injured. According to local sources, protesters are expected to gather at 12:00 (local time) in the Puutori area of the city. A counter-demonstration is expected to take place at 11:15 at Puolalanpuisto. A heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions are anticipated in the vicinity of any gatherings.

Context

On August 18, 2017, a rejected asylum seeker stabbed ten people in near Turku's Market Square, killing two people and wounding eight more. The perpetrator was arrested and charged with two counts of murder with terrorist attempt.

Advice

Individuals in Turku are advised to avoid protests as a precaution and allow additional time to travel near demonstration sites.