Finnish police and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) have recently completed a preliminary investigation into a neo-Nazi extremist group operating in the city of Lahti, located approximately 100 kilometers northwest of Helsinki. The group is suspected of planning and preparing for terrorist attacks, particularly those involving the use of 3D-printed firearms.
According to a statement released by the police on Thursday, the group consisted of at least four individuals who were discovered to be in possession of four FGC-9s. These 3D-printable 9mm submachine guns are widely known as the main product of the Deterrence Dispensed (DetDisp) group, an online collective that promotes and distributes open-source 3D-printed firearms.
The suspects are believed to have manufactured the firearms themselves, as a 3D printer was also found in their possession. In addition to the firearms, police seized a cache of approximately 1,500 ammunition rounds, a rifle, a handgun that had been illegally converted into a proper firearm, as well as various far-right memorabilia. The police also discovered three marijuana grow boxes during their searches.
Initially, the investigation focused on suspicions of aggravated firearms crimes. However, as the investigation progressed, evidence emerged suggesting that the group had intentions to carry out terrorist attacks. Detective Inspector Tuomas Kuure stated, “The targets of the planned violent attacks were selected based on their skin color, political or other ideological views. In addition to individual targets, the suspects also planned infrastructure attacks, including targeting the electricity network and rail traffic.”
The age range of the suspects varies, with three individuals aged between 20 and 30, and one individual over the age of 60. While all suspects were arrested late last year, they were ultimately released from pretrial detention. However, one suspect was taken back into police custody in March on suspicion of training to commit a terrorist act and other offenses.
The group is believed to have been influenced by an ideology known as accelerationism, which is popular among contemporary neo-Nazis. Accelerationists believe in accelerating the collapse of democratic societies and fostering a “racial war” through violence, including political assassinations, murders, and terrorist attacks.
In their communications on messaging services, the suspects frequently used accelerationist language, including terms like “siege,” “incitement,” and “race war.” The suspects also expressed the view that it would be too late to manufacture weapons once a “race war” had already begun.
The investigation into this extremist group highlights the growing concern surrounding the access to and use of 3D-printed firearms for criminal purposes. The ease with which individuals can manufacture these weapons using widely available technology poses a significant challenge for law enforcement agencies in their efforts to prevent potential acts of terrorism.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining strong vigilance against extremist ideologies and taking proactive measures to prevent acts of violence. The Finnish authorities’ swift action in uncovering and disrupting this neo-Nazi group’s terrorist plans demonstrates their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of their citizens.
As investigations continue, it is paramount that both national and international efforts are strengthened to combat the spread of extremist ideologies and the potential for individuals to engage in acts of terrorism.
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