kiinniottaja

Kinnniottaja is a Finnish term that translates to "apprehender" or "detainer" in English. It refers to an individual who has the legal authority to detain another person. This authority is typically granted to law enforcement officers, such as police officers, but can also extend to other officials in specific circumstances. The primary purpose of a kiinniottaja is to prevent a crime, apprehend a suspect, or maintain public order.

The legal framework surrounding the actions of a kiinniottaja is defined by Finnish law, primarily the Criminal Procedure Act. This legislation outlines the conditions under which a person can be apprehended, the duration of the detention, and the rights of the detained individual. The concept of "vapaudenriisto" (deprivation of liberty) is central to understanding the responsibilities and limitations of a kiinniottaja.

In practice, a kiinniottaja must have reasonable grounds to believe that a crime has been committed or is about to be committed. They are expected to act with proportionality and respect for the individual's rights. The detention is usually a temporary measure, with the individual either released or formally arrested and brought before a prosecutor or court for further proceedings. The powers of a kiinniottaja are distinct from those of an arrestant, who is someone who detains another person without official authority, often in the immediate aftermath of a crime.