A Finnish company exporting electronics to Russia is now under criminal investigation after authorities uncovered a hidden trail of high-value components possibly used by the Russian military.
Based in North Karelia, the company is suspected of breaching EU sanctions during 2022 and 2023 by sending semiconductors, microchips, processors and connectors to Russia. The total value of the exports is estimated at over 2.7 million euros.
The company, which previously focused on wooden art and tourism, had no history in the electronics trade. Customs officials confirmed that the shift in activity took place shortly after the war in Ukraine began. Investigators say the parts sent to Russia could be suitable for military use and may have supported Russian operations.
Sanna Kuparinen, who leads the investigation, stated that the electronic components in question were not for civilian use. Some of the items recovered were of a type known to support military-grade systems.
Officials believe the company sourced electronics from the United States, EU countries, China and elsewhere. From there, the goods were re-routed through various locations, including EU-based companies and distributors in Hong Kong. In some cases, shipments reached Russia directly. In others, they passed through Finland. The Vaalimaa border crossing in Virolahti was a key route.
Two individuals are under investigation. One lives in Russia and has not responded to outreach. The second suspect, a dual Finnish-Russian citizen, has been questioned repeatedly in Finland.
Customs believe the scheme was guided from abroad. They say instructions for the exports came from the suspect’s son, a former officer in the Russian army. The son had listed a Russian military academy as his home address when opening a bank account in Finland. A photo of him in uniform was also found in a house search.
Authorities have not revealed the name of the company or its specific location, but they confirmed that the business remains active. The investigation is looking into charges of aggravated regulatory offences and tax fraud. Once completed, the case will be transferred to the Eastern Finland Prosecutor’s Office.
The case comes as Finnish leaders push the EU to reinforce sanctions. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has called on member states to tighten restrictions and block loopholes. Despite current sanctions, Russia continues to obtain banned goods, including aircraft parts and electronics.
