A shocking case of sexual abuse of minors is being examined by the courts in Finland, where a 27-year-old man is accused of various sexual offenses against 361 children, whom he allegedly contacted through online platforms.
According to Finnish media, the victims are boys aged 9 to 15, who lived in different parts of the country. The defendant allegedly contacted them via social media, including Snapchat, and manipulated them into sending him sexually explicit material.
The case is being heard by the Pirkanmaa Regional Court, where the first hearing was held publicly, while further proceedings are expected to be held behind closed doors due to the nature of the case and the protection of minor victims.
The case came to light after police, while investigating another criminal case in 2022, examined the 27-year-old's mobile phone.
Thousands of photos and videos of children were found on his device, some of which could not be identified.
Initially, police had investigated the 27-year-old on suspicion of 364 sexual offences against children. Three of the cases were not prosecuted by the prosecution, bringing the number of offences for which he faces charges to 361.
According to authorities, he primarily used online communication to approach children and persuade them to send inappropriate material. The prosecution accuses him of offenses that include aggravated sexual abuse of children, sexual abuse of children and aggravated distribution of material depicting minors in a sexual manner.
During the investigation, the 27-year-old partially admitted to the actions he is accused of.
