The Finnish government has taken decisive action against Simon Ekpa, a self-proclaimed Biafran agitator currently detained in Finland, by freezing his assets and those of companies linked to him and his four alleged accomplices. Authorities accuse the group of engaging in terrorism-related activities, including inciting violence and financing terrorism.
High-Security Detention at Kylmäkoski Prison
Simon Ekpa, styling himself as the “Prime Minister” of the Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, remains in custody at Kylmäkoski vankila, one of Finland’s most secure prisons. The facility in Vanhamaantie, Akaa, houses individuals convicted of serious crimes, including violent offences and sex crimes. Finnish legal authorities state that bail is not permitted in cases like Ekpa’s, so he will likely spend both Christmas and New Year’s Day behind bars.
Built in 1993 to accommodate male prisoners, Kylmäkoski prison operates as a closed-unit facility and currently holds 113 inmates, including both convicted criminals and those in remand. Mika Ojamies, Head of International Communications at Yle, confirmed to PUNCH that Ekpa remains in custody at the facility.
Allegations Against Simon Ekpa
Finnish authorities allege that Ekpa used social media to incite violence in Nigeria’s South-East region, targeting both civilians and government officials. His arrest came four weeks ago following an investigation into his alleged activities, which Finnish media outlet Yle described as public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent.
Senior Detective Superintendent Mikko Laaksonen of Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation reiterated the seriousness of the charges. He noted that Finland’s strict legal framework prohibits releasing suspects under such charges on bail, further solidifying the possibility of Ekpa’s prolonged detention.
A Prison Featured in Global Spotlight
Kylmäkoski prison gained international recognition when the 2023 Netflix documentary Inside the World’s Toughest Prisons featured it. Journalist Raphael Rowe documented the facility’s operations, engaging with inmates convicted of violent crimes. Among the interviewees were individuals like Toni and Olli, whose lack of remorse for their brutal actions highlighted the harsh realities of the prison environment.
The prison faces additional challenges from the smuggling of drugs and contraband by new inmates, including subutex, cocaine, amphetamines, and mobile phones. A prison officer interviewed in the Netflix documentary confirmed the growing difficulties of managing violent and drug-affected inmates within the system.
