Finnish authorities say an elderly man has been brought to safety after police discovered him living in a windowless basement room in Helsinki for roughly 20 years.
The man, described as about 80 years old, was found on Jan. 19 during a search of a detached house, according to a statement from the Helsinki Police Department. Police said the search was launched after another authority shared information that raised concern.
“In the basement of the house, the police discovered an approximately 80-year-old man in poor physical condition and in need of immediate assistance,” the statement said.
Police described the living area as a windowless room without access to basic facilities for bathing, using a toilet, or preparing food. The man has not been publicly identified. Authorities said he is now receiving care through the appropriate services.
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Two men and one woman — all around 60 years old and residents of Helsinki — were arrested in connection with the situation, police said. Investigators believe the man moved into the basement “several decades ago,” and are examining whether the people living in the same house exploited him for financial gain, potentially amounting to human trafficking. The investigation remains ongoing.
Detective Inspector Jari Korkalainen told local newspaper Iltalehti that the suspects are related to one another. He also said the man initially moved into the basement voluntarily about 20 years ago, but his health later declined, according to the outlet.
Korkalainen said the suspects expressed surprise at the allegation of criminal wrongdoing and have cooperated with investigators. Police said the three were later released after being detained.
The official who reported the situation said he came to know the man through his work.
Finland’s national public broadcaster Yle reported that the man is currently in good condition.
