Simon Ekpa, a Finnish-Nigerian separatist and self-proclaimed Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government In-Exile, has been arrested in Finland alongside four others for alleged terror-related activities.
According to reports from Finland, Ekpa was remanded in custody by the Päijät-Häme District Court on charges of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent.
Details of the Arrest
The Finnish Central Criminal Police, in a statement on Thursday, confirmed the arrests of five individuals suspected of terrorism. The main suspect, identified as a Nigerian-born Finnish citizen in his 40s, is accused of promoting violence through social media channels, leading to attacks on civilians and authorities in southeastern Nigeria.
The statement added:
“The police suspect that the man has promoted his efforts from Finland by means that have led to violence against civilians and authorities as well as other crimes in the region of South-Eastern Nigeria.”
Crime Commissioner Otto Hiltunen, head of the investigation, stated that the activities carried out by the suspect included using social media to incite violence.
Four other suspects were arrested for allegedly financing the activities. Finnish authorities confirmed that international cooperation played a significant role in the investigation.
Legal Proceedings
The Päijät-Häme District Court will hear the charges against all five suspects today, November 21. Finnish authorities have emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and their commitment to ensuring justice.
This arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing global scrutiny of separatist activities linked to the Biafra movement.
More updates to follow as the case unfolds.
