Simon Ekpa, a Finnish-Nigerian separatist and self-styled Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government In-Exile, has been arrested in Finland alongside four others over alleged terrorism-related activities.
The Päijät-Häme District Court ordered Ekpa’s detention on charges of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent. Local reports indicate that the arrests were part of a broader investigation conducted by the Finnish Central Criminal Police.
In a statement released on Thursday, November 21, Finnish authorities revealed that the five suspects were under investigation for various terrorism-related offences. Ekpa, the principal suspect, is accused of inciting terrorism, while the other four face allegations of financing terrorist activities.
The investigation centers on Ekpa, identified as a Finnish citizen of Nigerian origin born in the 1980s, who allegedly used social media to promote violence. Authorities claim his activities have incited attacks on civilians and government officials in South-Eastern Nigeria.
Crime Commissioner Otto Hiltunen, leading the inquiry, highlighted that the suspect’s operations were primarily conducted online, facilitating the dissemination of incitements to violence. The four other suspects are believed to have provided financial support for these activities.
Finnish police confirmed that all five individuals were taken into custody earlier this week, noting the critical role of international collaboration in advancing the case.
Further details about the suspects or the investigation are expected as proceedings continue.
