süüteoks

Süüteoks is the Estonian term for arson, the criminal act of deliberately starting a fire or causing an explosion that damages property or endangers people. It also covers cases where initiating a fire creates a significant risk to life, even if no one is harmed at the moment.

In Estonian criminal law, süüteoks involves a purposeful act to ignite a fire or cause an explosion, with the resulting damage or danger as a consequence of the act. The offense is categorized as ordinary arson or aggravated arson, depending on factors such as the scale of damage and the danger posed. A conviction requires a causal link between the act and the resulting harm or risk; penalties vary with severity and circumstances of the case.

Common targets of süüteoks include residences, commercial premises, vehicles, and forests. Investigations rely on fire-scene forensics, witness statements, and motive assessment, coordinated by police, prosecutors, and fire services to determine responsibility and applicable penalties.

Etymology: süüteoks is formed from süütama, meaning to set on fire, with the abstract noun suffix -oks, literally meaning “the act of arson.” See also arson in general and the Estonian Penal Code for the statutory framework.