Arsonists keep citizens on alert in historical Porvoo
The series of arsons that have occurred in the city of Porvoo during the first five weeks of the current year has resulted in tightened security regulations. Some condominiums have issued their residents with new regulations ordering that casual passers-by who push the button at the outer door must not be let in without checking their identity.
Tightened security measures have not been enough. The residents of the district of Gammelbacka complain that mischief and vandalism are experienced all the time. On the other hand, some people say that Porvoo is at least more tranquil than Espoo.
Risto Heiskanen said that in the 1970s when he lived in Porvoo's Old Quarter, there was a continual risk of fire, as the houses were then heated by wood. There were also many homeless people who handled fire carelessly. Since then houses have been repaired, and hence they are much safer.
The arson in Porvoo's Old Quarter last weekend could have been much more disastrous, as the houses are so close to each other, says leading firefighter Jouni Virta of the regional rescue department of Eastern Uusimaa. Furthermore, he reported that the rescue department and police together will be investigating each incident in order to find the cause of the fire, as well as the possible arsonist, as quickly as possible.
Inspector Bengt Renlund of Porvoo police says that investigations into the previous arsons which have occurred in the districts of Näsi and Gammelbacka are being continued, and one man has been arrested. However, it is not certain that he could be guilty of all fires set in the area.
Renlund regards it as possible that the publicity surrounding the arsons might have activated some disturbed people into "copycat" crimes.
Even maintenance companies are more actively following all movements around blocks of flats. Some companies have even considered the acquisition of mobile surveillance cameras. However, they might easily be targets for vandalism, as surveillance must be clearly indicated.
The district of Gammelbacka was mostly built in the 1960s and 1970s for the refinery employees of the then Neste Corporation (now Fortum). Life in the area was restless and even voluntary security guards were set up. However, they have not been needed for a long time, and no plans exist to start them up again, either.
Helsingin Sanomat
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| 10.2.2005 - TODAY |
 Arsonists keep citizens on alert in historical Porvoo |
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