At least two injured in Lahti nightclub shooting

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Two people were injured slightly in a shooting incident in a nightclub in the city of Lahti on Saturday night. One of the victims received bullet fragments in the hand, while another person sustained mild head injuries from flying chips of concrete. The police suspect there may have been others who were injured as well.
      In connection with the investigation, the police have apprehended seven people in all. Some of them have since been released, but "several suspects" are still under arrest.
      During the incident, members of the Rogues Gallery biker gang, listed as a criminal organisation, were present at the scene.
      In the Musta Kissa  (Black Cat) nightclub, which at the time was filled to capacity, four or five handgun shots were fired into the walls and the ceiling. The police refuse to reveal if they have discovered the weapon used.
     
According to Det. Inspector Esko Heinonen, the course of events or the reasons for the shooting remain unclear. On Monday, the police refrained from commenting on the possible implication of criminal gangs.
      "We hope that those present at the time of the shooting will contact us", Heinonen says.
      The police are also investigating another shooting that took place in a restaurant in nearby Nastola a week ago. Some of the same people were present there as well. The Nastola incident was less dangerous, as a single shot was fired in a secluded corner of the establishment.
      The person who fired the shot avoided getting caught by leaving the place, along with his entourage, before the police arrived.


Previously in HS International Edition:
  Two wounded in gang-related shootout in Helsinki (1.8.2005)

Helsingin Sanomat