Prosecutors seek convictions for Diablos MC members on firearm and drug charges in Warkaus

Last spring, the police seized a submachine gun, a small-caliber rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol from members of the Diablos MC Warkaus motorcycle club. Now, prosecutors are seeking convictions for three club members on serious firearm charges, along with drug-related offenses. The trial commenced on Wednesday at the North Savonia District Court.

According to prosecutors, the club president illegally possessed a functional Suomi submachine gun, complete with a drum magazine and eight appropriate rounds. He also had a Lahti pistol with a magazine and nine suitable ammunition rounds. The prosecution argues that the submachine gun is a military weapon designed solely for violent acts or threats thereof. The accused is alleged to have unlawfully acquired 177 9 mm cartridges, 28 7.65 mm cartridges, nine other rounds, and two shotgun shells. Prosecutors contend that this individual lacks any possibility of obtaining legal permits for firearms.

Additionally, the president was found in possession of approximately 15 grams of marijuana and around five grams of highly dangerous amphetamine. Two other club members also face drug charges. One had about five grams of amphetamine and ten grams of cocaine, while the other attempted to cultivate hemp and was found to possess marijuana purchased elsewhere.

The man accused of cultivating hemp also faces two firearm-related charges, as he allegedly possessed a Lepco shotgun and a Soviet-made Baikal rifle, altered into a pistol configuration. During the seizure, one cartridge was found in the shotgun, another taped to the weapon, along with 21 rounds compatible with the rifle and 17 other cartridges—items whose ownership requires licensing.

Prosecutors are requesting conditional prison sentences between 8 to 14 months for the accused, with the court’s ruling expected on November 6.