The Oulu Police Department and Kainuu Border Guard have initiated a year-long joint patrol experiment starting on January 7 in Kuhmo. This initiative aims to have police and border guards working as a singular unit in a police vehicle, fulfilling regular police duties within their operational area. The trial is expected to continue until the end of 2026, and emphasizes the importance of developing inter-agency cooperation by familiarizing with each organization's different operational methods and practices.

In this joint patrolling effort, both police and border guards are tasked with responding to emergency calls received by the emergency center, while also maintaining public order and safety in their assigned area. Beyond general oversight, the patrol will also monitor traffic safety and perform assigned tasks of the Border Guard. Collaborative efforts in the past have included joint searches during the berry-picking and hunting seasons in the fall, showing an ongoing commitment to enhancing safety and response efficiency in the region.

Through this initiative, the two agencies aim to foster better coordination and communication, which is expected to lead to improved public safety outcomes in Kainuu. The success of this trial may serve as a model for future collaborations between police and border authorities across Finland, making it a significant step in modern public safety approaches in the country.