Police clear Helsinki park after unrest among young people; one taken to hospital

Police cleared Helsinki’s Alppipuisto late Friday after a large gathering of young people turned disorderly. Three assaults were recorded, one young person was taken to hospital and another was detained.

A witness told Ilta-Sanomat that at least 10 police cars were at the park and described the incident as a large fight. Hundreds of young people had gathered to begin the weekend, according to police inspector Esa Pennanen.

Both minors and adults were present, and police said intoxicant use was involved. “It is always disorderly when a large group of young people gathers and intoxicants are involved. At worst, the situation can escalate into assault,” Pennanen said.

Police cleared the park between about 10 p.m. and midnight. One aggressive young person was detained after allegedly kicking a police officer, Pennanen said. That person was not connected to the assaults recorded at the park.

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It is always disorderly when a large group of young people gathers and intoxicants are involved. At worst, the situation can escalate into assault.