Helsinki police crack down on underage drinking
Police in Helsinki are to continue their tough line on dealing with public drinking by minors. Petty fines will be handed out to offenders.
The coming weekend will see partying on beaches and in parks prior to the start of the autumn school term next week in Helsinki.
In June, police handed out petty fines to many underage drinkers during end of term festivities.
”We do not intend to turn a blind eye to children's drinking. Our stance has changed as previously we haven’t handed out petty fines on such a wide scale,” says Inspector Jari Taponen.
A petty fine can be issued to over 15-year-olds while alcoholic beverages are confiscated from younger offenders. Welfare authorities are also notified if a fine is issued.
Police say they have received positive feedback from the public concerning their tougher policy on underage drinking.
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