The Deputy Prosecutor General of Finland brought charges on Thursday against four Finnish citizens for training to commit terrorist crimes. Prosecutors say the accused allegedly held “racist beliefs” and were “preparing an armed conflict between ethnic groups.” Charges against the four include manufacturing firearms and narcotics, as well as training personnel in the manufacture and use of weapons.

According to the preliminary investigation by the Häme Police Department and the Central Criminal Police, the suspected offenses were committed from 2022 to 2023 in the region of Lahti. The investigation initially concerned a suspected firearm crime, but its scope expanded to terrorism as evidence came to light. All four suspects were captured in 2022 but were subsequently released from pretrial detention. One of them was recaptured in March 2023 for continued criminal activity after being released.

The suspects were said to be Neo-Nazis who formed an extreme right-wing group and manufactured weapons by 3D printing. During their investigations, police found and confiscated, among others, four 3D-printed firearms, three cannabis growers, numerous 3D-printed gun parts and more than 1,500 cartridges suitable for manufactured weapons. Crime Commissioner Tuomas Kuure said that, based on the group’s conversations, the suspects were planning attacks against individuals of specific races and individuals holding certain beliefs. Kuure also stated the suspects planned to attack city infrastructure, including the electricity network and rail traffic.

The Public Prosecutor’s Office brought the charges on Thursday to the Päijänne-Tavastland District Court.