Investigation into Kuhmoisten weapons museum heist progresses as one suspect remains in custody

The investigation into the firearm thefts at the Kuhmoisten Weapons and Army Museum is progressing, with one individual currently in custody. The lead investigator, Criminal Commissioner Kari Aaltio, reports that the motive for the crime committed by the 49-year-old suspect appears to be related to debts, though details about the origin of these debts remain undisclosed.

Others involved are suspected of aiding the distribution of the stolen weapons. Aaltio refrained from commenting on whether the suspects have been cooperative during interrogations, but it is known they have admitted their roles in the crimes.

On July 9, the Pirkanmaa District Court remanded the 49-year-old man, who broke into the museum on July 2-3 and stole 34 handguns. He faces charges of aggravated theft and serious firearms offenses. Reports indicate he has a prior criminal history and had previously served time in prison. He attempted to break into the museum again on July 5 with another man born in 1985; while that attempt failed, they allegedly broke into an unoccupied apartment on the museum property and stole alcohol. The 1985-born man is also suspected of burglary.

On July 13, a woman born in 1963 and a man born in 1987 were taken into custody in connection with the case, along with a man born in 1990 who is also under suspicion. They are accused of serious concealment offenses and serious firearms offenses. Aaltio believes there may be additional suspects linked to these crimes, with police previously expressing concerns that the stolen firearms might be trafficked to Southern Finland.

Of the 34 stolen firearms, 31 remain missing, raising fears that they could end up in criminal hands. The weapons are operable but currently do not contain ammunition. Authorities are requesting any information regarding the stolen firearms at a designated email address.