Blockfest in Tampere attracts 80,000 attendees amid rising drug incidents

This weekend, Blockfest in Tampere attracted a total of 80,000 attendees, marking one of the busiest weekends for local law enforcement. According to Petri Kollanen, Chief of Police for Central Finland, despite the high attendance, the event was managed well. However, there was an increase in drug-related incidents compared to last year, with numerous drug findings reported during security checks conducted by festival organizers. Cocaine was the most commonly seized substance, as noted by Kollanen.

Blockfest’s marketing manager, Jenna-Juulia Rekiö, acknowledged the police observations and stated that they are taken seriously. Interestingly, the number of severely intoxicated minors was lower than in previous years, according to Kollanen. A study from the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare revealed a rising trend in drug use, especially cocaine, in Finland, which is also reflected at some music festivals.

In addition to illicit drug use, law enforcement noted several empty nitrous oxide canisters throughout Tampere during the weekend. The use of nitrous oxide for recreational purposes is illegal in Finland, as it can create a brief euphoric high. Youth services in Tampere deployed staff to both the festival grounds and surrounding areas. Tiia Muriuki, a coordinator for the youth services, mentioned their awareness of nitrous oxide use, although it appeared to be limited to a small segment of festival-goers.

While nitrous oxide use has been increasing among young people, especially in Helsinki, Muriuki emphasized that usage in Tampere is largely event-related. The risks associated with nitrous oxide include the potential for suffocation or loss of consciousness, particularly if used alongside other substances, which can impair self-control.