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Helsinki police beef up security for Easter crucifixion play

The Via Crucis re-enactment of Jesus' journey to the cross will draw big crowds to central Helsinki on Good Friday. Police have increased the amount of street patrols due to recent terror attacks.

Laulaja-näyttelijä Maria Ylipää nähdään Jeesuksena tämän vuoden Via Cruciksessa.
Singer-actress Maria Ylipää will play the role of Jesus. Image: Pietari Purovaara / Via Crucis

In the wake of the recent terrorist attack in Stockholm, the Helsinki police department is reinforcing security for the Via Crucis play, the ecumenical re-enactment of Jesus’ journey on the day of his crucifixion.

”We’re paying more attention to security now compared to previous years,” admits Chief Inspector Seppo Kujala.

 Kujala says police are improving preparedness  by increasing the amount of police patrols on the streets.

”We’re prepared in ways that are both conspicuous and inconspicuous,” Kujala says.

Last year, the Via Crucis or the Way of the Cross, attracted 20,000 spectators. The spectacle is one of the biggest open-air theatrical displays in the capital. Kujala emphasizes there is no need to worry, as the Easter celebrations are expected to run smoothly and safely.

The Via Crucis play will start moving toward the Helsinki Cathedral from Kaisaniemi Park at 21.30 on Good Friday.

The portrayal will affect tram lines 7A and 7B and cause momentary congestion in Kaisaniemi.