On 3 November2025, in southeastern Finland, Naim Acar, Ramazan Koyun, and Metin Çelik were detained as part of a “terrorism financing” investigation conducted by the National Bureau of Investigation (Keskusrikospoliisi–KRP). Following the detentions, searches were carried out at their homes and at the Kurdish Community Center in Helsinki.
Members of the Kurdish community in Finland noted the timing of the detentions, coinciding with the visit of Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, and expressed concern that the process may be politically motivated.
In a statement, the Kurdish People’s Assembly emphasized that Kurds living in Finland are law-abiding and well-integrated members of society, asserting that defending their institutions and values is their most natural right. The statement added, “The right of Kurds to organize and defend their political and cultural values is a universal right.”
Families of the detainees have reportedly not yet received sufficient or clear information about their situation, and they called for the process to be conducted lawfully, transparently, and fairly.
Kurds in Finland announced that they will hold a protest in response to these developments on Friday (tomorrow) at 12:00 p.m. in front of the Ministry of the Interior in Helsinki. All democratic circles, friends, and especially the Kurdish people were invited to join the demonstration.
Protest details
Address: Kirkkokatu 12, Helsinki
Date and time: Friday 7 November, 12:00 p.m.