Finnish customs investigate 900 cases of smuggling to Russia

Finnish authorities have initiated over 900 investigations into violations of sanctions against Russia since 2022, with cases ranging from small luxury items to military-use equipment. Despite the closure of Finland's border with Russia last year, at

By: helsinkitimes.fi

Jan 06 2025
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Finnish authorities have initiated over 900 investigations into violations of sanctions against Russia since 2022, with cases ranging from small luxury items to military-use equipment. Despite the closure of Finland's border with Russia last year, attempts to smuggle prohibited goods have continued.

Finnish customs data reveal that more than half of the cases involve minor offences.

These are typically resolved through fines and often involve individuals attempting to cross the border with luxury items, such as designer goods and sports equipment.

The more severe cases, however, show systematic planning and involve high-value goods with potential military applications.

In one prominent investigation launched in late 2024, an Eastern Finnish company is suspected of smuggling drones, sonar equipment, and processors worth several hundred thousand euros. The goods were purchased from U.S. online stores, flown to Finland, and transported to Russia via multiple road shipments.

In many instances, perpetrators falsely declare shipments destined for locations like Central Asia or the Balkans while rerouting them to Russia.

Hannu Sinkkonen, Director of Customs Control, highlighted the unprecedented scale of these violations. “We’ve opened more than 900 preliminary investigations since the start of the war. This is a significant number compared to the handful of cases we handled annually before,” Sinkkonen told Finnish media.

Courts have issued verdicts in several dozen cases, with hundreds more under investigation or awaiting trial.

The pace of violations slowed in 2024 after Finland closed its border with Russia. However, customs authorities say smuggling operations remain active, with Finnish companies rerouting goods through Baltic states, southern Europe, or even Asia.

“Prohibited exports still occur, regardless of the route taken,” Sinkkonen added, noting that violations are judged based on the origin and destination of the goods rather than the route.

Sophisticated smuggling efforts often involve logistical companies attempting to obscure shipment details. One case implicated a businessman from Vantaa whose two firms allegedly transported thousands of drones to Russia. Official declarations falsely listed Kazakhstan as the destination.

Experts warn that such violations not only undermine sanctions but also risk fueling military conflicts.

The persistent attempts to evade sanctions come as Finland strengthens its security measures, including modernising its armed forces and deepening integration with NATO.