Three Diablos MC members charged with firearm and drug offenses in Warkaus

In the spring of last year, police confiscated a submachine gun, a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol from members of the Diablos MC motorcycle club in Warkaus. Now, prosecutors are charging three club members with serious firearm offenses, including three weapon-related crimes, two drug offenses, and two charges of illegal substance use. The trial began on Wednesday at the North Savonia District Court.

According to the prosecution, the club’s president was found in illegal possession of a functioning Finnish submachine gun, along with a drum magazine and eight suitable cartridges. He also had a Lahti pistol with its magazine and nine corresponding cartridges. The prosecution emphasizes that the submachine gun is a military weapon intended solely for acts of violence or threats. The individual allegedly acquired 177 9mm cartridges, 28 7.65mm cartridges, and nine other cartridges, as well as two shotgun cartridges, without the proper permits.

Additionally, the prosecution states the man had approximately 15 grams of marijuana and five grams of high-risk amphetamine in his possession. Two other motorcycle club members also face drug-related charges; one had about five grams of amphetamine and nearly ten grams of cocaine, while another attempted to grow hemp and was found with marijuana purchased elsewhere.

The individual accused of hemp cultivation also faces two firearm charges. He was reported to possess a Lepco-brand shotgun and a Soviet-made Baikal rifle, which had been altered to function as a pistol. During the confiscation, one cartridge was found in the shotgun’s chamber and another taped to the weapon. Additionally, authorities seized 21 cartridges suitable for the rifle, 17 other cartridges, and various firearm parts—all of which require permits.

Prosecutors are seeking prison sentences of 8 to 14 months, with a verdict expected on November 6.