The nationalist 612 torch march in Helsinki on Independence Day, 6 December 2024. The organisers claim the march is politically neutral, but in previous years it has attracted nationalist and far-right groups. LEHTIKUVA
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Independence Day demonstrations in Helsinki concluded with police detaining 40 counter-protesters and accusations of extremist symbolism within the 612 torch march. The day featured high tensions between the far-right 612 torch procession and the Helsinki without Nazis (Helsinki ilman natseja) counter-protest.
The 612 torch march, which organisers claim to be politically neutral, started from Töölöntori and proceeded to Hietaniemi cemetery.
Among its participants were members of the nationalist Soldiers of Odin group and the international far-right network Active Club, identifiable by their attire. Several participants made Nazi salutes during the march, reported journalists on site.
Finns Party MP Teemu Keskisarja marched at the front alongside Tuukka Kuru, chairman of the openly fascist Sinimusta Liike. In his speech before the march, Keskisarja stated, “Those who call us Nazis are speaking nonsense,” urging attendees to set aside political divides for the day. Keskisarja’s decision to participate drew criticism, but his party leadership did not impose sanctions.
Before the 612 march began, counter-protesters from Helsinki without Nazis gathered to oppose the procession. The police, citing prior notification laws, ordered the counter-protest to relocate to Taivallahden square. Organisers refused, and the demonstration proceeded at Töölöntori.
Clashes ensued as police, including riot units and mounted officers, cleared the square. Some counter-protesters resisted, leading to 40 arrests for disobeying orders and obstructing officers. Police reported attempts to seize equipment, while counter-protesters accused officers of excessive force. Some participants were reportedly struck in the throat with elbows, causing fainting.
During the dispersal, police horses were used to move demonstrators. One officer’s firearm was reportedly targeted in an attempted seizure, though no suspects were apprehended.
Tensions escalated when 612 marchers seized banners from Helsinki without Nazis and set them alight. A participant declared, “Helsinki for Nazis,” while igniting a banner. They also took a Palestinian flag from the counter-protesters.
Journalists reported being obstructed by police while filming arrests. Despite this, police maintained there was no policy preventing public recording.
The police presence was notably large, with dozens of riot officers, horses, and dogs deployed. “I’ve never seen this many police at a demonstration,” said a journalist from Helsingin Sanomat.
The 612 march ended at Hietaniemi cemetery without further incidents. Police later lifted the containment of Töölöntori, stating the demonstrations proceeded as anticipated. However, organisers of Helsinki without Nazis expressed disappointment, describing police actions as arbitrary and biased toward the far-right.
Independence Day demonstrations in recent years have consistently drawn clashes between nationalist groups and anti-fascist protesters, reflecting deep societal divisions.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
