The Southwest Finland police are investigating a series of professional shoplifting incidents where thieves have taken designer jackets, shoes, and accessories worth tens of thousands of euros. These thefts have primarily occurred in retail environments, with the main focus on the Turku region, according to Crime Commissioner Tommi Kosunen. He noted that while the bulk of the crimes have taken place in Turku and nearby areas, incidents have also been reported in the capital region and in Oulu.

The modus operandi of the thieves has been described as highly professional, involving the use of tools to remove security devices from the stolen goods. The police report that the most active phase of these thefts occurred between May of last year and February of this year, demonstrating a well-organized approach to their criminal activities in large shopping malls.

In a notable development, a Belarusian national was arrested at the end of February as a lone suspect linked to these shoplifting activities. The individual remains in custody while the investigation continues, indicating that the authorities are taking these crimes seriously and are committed to apprehending those involved in the larger scheme of organized theft throughout the country.