Finland man investigated by authorities for unauthorized border crossing at Vainikkala

A man who crossed from Finland into Russia in May is, according to Russian authorities, a Russian citizen. The investigation leader, Lieutenant Matti Rantanen from the Southeastern Finland Border Guard, stated that the man does not hold dual citizenship between Finland and Russia and may have entered Finland through the Schengen Area.

Rantanen noted that Finnish authorities have not been able to question the individual, nor have they reached any potential relatives or acquaintances in Finland based on the information provided by Russian authorities.

The investigation is ongoing in both Finland and Russia. The man crossed the eastern border without authorization at Vainikkala, near Lappeenranta, on the last day of May. Russian authorities apprehended him and subsequently informed Finnish border officials.

According to Rantanen, the man is suspected of a border violation under laws analogous to Finnish criminal law, as well as resisting authority. He stated, “It is possible that the man may not be returned to Finland.”

The border guard is investigating the case as a state border offense, which can result in a fine or a maximum of one year in prison. Prosecution for this crime expires after two years.