The Dark Turn: Theft of Lights at Honkavuori Ski Centre Leaves Skiers in Need of Headlamps

Skiers at Honkavuori Ski Centre are facing an unexpected challenge this season due to the recent theft of several lighting fixtures. As a result, enthusiasts in Pyhäjärvi may soon find themselves relying on headlamps for their early snow trail outings.

Replacing the stolen lights could cost over €100,000, and authorities have noted a troubling trend of similar thefts occurring across southern Northern Ostrobothnia.

"We do not yet know if we will be able to capture images of Honkavuori Ski Centre under artificial light this winter," reflected Timo Sipola, addressing the concern rippling through the community.

Reports suggest that a series of such crimes are on the rise in the region. At Honkavuori Ski Centre, several of the recently updated lights along the six-kilometer fitness trail have been vandalized, with cables from 80 light poles reported stolen earlier this autumn.

The Lamminahon Ahto community association has lodged a police report, and law enforcement is actively investigating the matter. The public is encouraged to report any information related to these thefts.

The forthcoming autumn skiing season might unfold under the beams of headlamps, as the association warns of exorbitant costs associated with new lighting installations.

"It’s incredibly frustrating. The theft of cable from the trail lights feels like a direct insult to our entire community," lamented Esa Ryynänen, vice president of Lamminahon Ahto.

Criminal inspector Minna Vuori has confirmed that similar incidents have been reported in the Jokilaaksot region this fall, specifically in towns like Haapajärvi, Haapavesi, Kärsämäki, and Oulais. "They’ve stolen items such as cables and fuel from construction sites and business premises," Vuori elaborated.

Authorities have already questioned several suspects related to the Pyhäjärvi incident, with suspicions that the culprits might have a history of offenses, potentially linked to drug-related thefts.

Honkavuori is not just a local recreational area; it has stood as a host for numerous prestigious skiing competitions over the years. The Lamminahon Ahto community has invested considerable effort into developing the location into a vibrant space for residents.

In recent years, the trails have been the site of significant events, including the Finnish Youth Championships last year and the Adults' Finnish Championships three years ago. New facilities, such as fitness stairs, a frisbee golf course, and a mountain biking route have also been added to enhance the area.

"Honkavuori Ski Centre has been at the heart of our sports club's activities for decades, and we’ve worked hard for this community," Ryynänen stated.

Looking toward the future, Ryynänen mentioned uncertainty about whether any structures might need to be dismantled before repairs on the damaged or stolen lighting can commence. The early snow trail, usually opened in November, depends on snow saved from the previous winter.

"If we manage to restore a few lights and detach them from the larger network, it may be possible to ski under artificial light this autumn. However, we must remain prepared to use headlamps as a backup plan," he warned.