Simon Ekpa Held in Finland’s Toughest Prison as Assets Are Seized Over Terrorism Allegations
Simon Ekpa, the embattled leader of the self-proclaimed Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, is currently being detained in Kylmäkoski Prison, Finland’s most secure and notorious correctional facility. Located in Vanhamaantie, Akaa, the prison houses some of the most dangerous criminals, including violent offenders and sex offenders.
The Finnish government arrested Ekpa alongside four accomplices over allegations of incitement to violence and financing terrorism in Nigeria’s South-East region. Investigations revealed that Ekpa utilized social media platforms to propagate violent ideologies targeting civilians and government authorities.
In addition to his detention, Finland has frozen Ekpa’s assets as well as those of companies linked to him and his accomplices. This move aims to dismantle the financial networks allegedly supporting his activities.
Ekpa was remanded by the Päijät-Häme District Court on charges of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent. His trial is set for May 2025, with authorities emphasizing that his remand is a preventive measure to ensure the integrity of the ongoing investigation.
Finland’s Toughest Prison
Kylmäkoski Prison, built in 1993, is a high-security facility known for its strict regulations and challenging environment. The prison has gained global attention through documentaries showcasing its intense conditions, which include isolated cells, heavily monitored movement, and strict discipline.
Unlike Finland’s open prisons, where inmates can take vacations or hold jobs, Kylmäkoski enforces rigid rules. Inmates are denied physical contact during visits and are barred from exchanging written messages without official authorization.
The facility has also struggled with issues like drug smuggling and internal misconduct, including cases where staff members were dismissed for inappropriate behaviour with inmates.
Legal Proceedings
Ekpa’s detention marks a critical point in Finland’s commitment to combating terrorism. A senior detective with Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation confirmed that due to the severity of the charges, Ekpa is ineligible for bail. The remand order highlights its purpose as a coercive measure to prevent continued criminal activity and ensure court proceedings are not compromised.
