Violence risk for parking inspectors in Helsinki highlighted by Pekka Laurila

The threat of violence and both mental and physical aggression are significant risks for parking inspectors working in Helsinki, according to Pekka Laurila, a parking inspector in the city. Just moments before an interview with Yle, Laurila and his partner faced a close call when a taxi fleeing a parking fine nearly drove over them on a crosswalk in Asema-aukio.

“It’s quite common for us to have such experiences when taxis are caught in heavy traffic. They believe they can escape the fine if they drive away quickly,” Laurila explains. He reveals that dangerous situations occur frequently, particularly in the city center. For instance, he was punched in the face about a month ago, and attempts have been made to break the windows of the vehicle they use.

At the taxi station in Asema-aukio, aggressive behavior from some taxi drivers is known, as well as conflicts among themselves. Laurila attributes chronic illegal parking in the area to taxis blocking lanes while competing for customers. When he and his partner approach incorrectly parked taxis, some drivers try to evade detection by driving away with their trunks open, hoping not to be identified.

Parking fines are mailed to those drivers as long as the front license plate was visible initially. Laurila has reported incidents of assault and vehicle damage, but he worries that unresolved cases lead to growing insecurity among inspectors.

Sari Huuhtanen, the lead parking inspector in Helsinki, expressed shock at Laurila’s experiences, recognizing the serious nature of the threats. She notes that while physical violence is rare, the psychological impact and intimidation are significant. “No one should have to work in fear,” she asserts. The city is actively seeking to improve conditions in the Asema-aukio area as part of ongoing efforts to address these challenges.