Published: 09/06/25 | 19:21
Robert Slotte, who is the legal representative for the family that vanished from Ostrobothnia has come forward to explain that the disappearance was triggered by deep disagreements with child welfare authorities.
Slotte revealed that his last communication with the family took place more than a year ago that was well before they went missing. He said conflicts escalated after the authorities took the couple’s seven children into care in spring 2024.
According to Slotte, after the children were placed in protective custody there were indications that they would be split up and relocated to various parts of Finland.
“At that point the family strongly expressed their frustration and stated this kind of nonsense needed to stop especially regarding their children being taken away. I don’t think there was anything inappropriate about that reaction,” said Slotte.
While Siv Kola, who is the head of child welfare in the Ostrobothnia region, declined to address the specific case she commented more generally on the practice of separating siblings. She explained that keeping siblings together is usually a priority because it serves the children’s best interests.
However, Kola highlighted that siblings may be separated if their living together proves problematic or unmanageable especially in large families. Another reason could be the preference for placing children in family care where a single foster home may not have space for all siblings.
Slotte also claimed that during custody the children’s ability to communicate with their parents was restricted. Phone calls were not freely allowed, and visitations were limited.
According to the Finnish Child Welfare Association, limiting parental contact is permitted if it’s deemed harmful to the child.
Police announced in early June that they are looking for a family that has been missing for two years. The case gained public attention when a red flag was triggered during the investigation. Authorities have since received over 100 leads but the family’s current location remains unknown.
Slotte emphasized that his last interaction with the parents occurred long ago which was prior to their disappearance. He described the couple as intelligent and resolute.
“They’re a very determined pair, unafraid to stand up to authorities and unwilling to be intimidated. Maybe they were expected to be more submissive but they chose not to be,” Slotte commented.
Court records indicate that the parents are under suspicion for assault and unlawful deprivation of liberty. However, Slotte maintained that the case does not involve any physical violence.
He added that he is unaware of the family’s current plans or the status of the criminal investigation into alleged illegal custody actions.
