Police enhance security measures for Blockfest in Tampere

The police are preparing for the upcoming Blockfest event in Tampere by increasing aerial surveillance, preventive measures, and staffing for challenging situations. The three-day hip hop festival kicks off today at Ratinan Stadium and is expected to attract tens of thousands of attendees, according to marketing manager Jenna-Juulia Rekiö.

Commissioner Jani Mäkilä stated that their approach for this year is similar to previous years, with slightly more patrols and specially trained personnel on duty. He also noted enhanced communication between the police and event organizers, which has improved the management of event fencing and e-scooter parking to help prevent disorder.

Mäkilä anticipates that drug and substance use will be visible in the city during the festival, and the police aim to address street-level drug dealing where possible. Despite the atmosphere often associated with music festivals, he indicated that the majority of attendees behave responsibly, and the expansion of the event area has alleviated some crowd control challenges.

Blockfest transitioned to an 18+ event in 2020, but it still attracts many party-goers without tickets outside Ratinan Stadium, increasing police responsibilities. Mäkilä described the event as one of the largest in terms of police operations in Pirkanmaa this year, placing significant demands on the force over the two-day event.

The festival made headlines before its start when Friday’s headliner, Chief Keef, canceled just days before the event, leading to the quick booking of American artist Gunna as a replacement. Last year, Blockfest welcomed around 80,000 visitors.