Police Chief Demands Explanation over 'Drunk Tank' Assault

According to the charge, the guard punched the arrested man to the head while another held him down. The incident was witnessed by several police officers. News of the assault was first published by the tabloid Iltalehti on Tuesday.

The victim is a 46 year-old Finnish citizen born in Iran.

Police Commissioner Markku Salminen also first heard about the incident from the newspaper article even though it took place over a year ago. He expressed his incredulity that the Helsinki Police Commissioner had not reported the matter to him. Salminen added procedure demanded the Helsinki police should have informed both senior police chiefs and ministry officials of the incident.

Salminen said he wanted a full explanation of what had taken place. He stressed the Helsinki District Court would decide on the legal aspect of the assault. A verdict is expected on Friday.

Salminen said he could not recall when a detainee brought to a police cell had been treated in such a fashion. On the other hand, he did not know to what extent the victim had resisted arrest.

The Helsinki Police Department says it will draw its conclusions on the matter of the security guard in their employment following the court's decision on Friday.

YLE