Ståhlberg kidnapping

The kidnappers threatened to execute both hostages if their demands were not met, but were ultimately hesitant to carry out the threat.

[2] The pair were taken by car to Joensuu in Eastern Finland, where they were abruptly set free after the kidnappers failed to meet up with other accomplices.

[3] In December 1930, Wallenius and Eero Kuussaari were found guilty of the kidnapping and sentenced to 3 years of penal servitude and dismissal from the army.

[4] The incident greatly eroded the already dwindling popular support for the Lapua Movement.

[2] The kidnapping was also considered decisive in the victory of Pehr Evind Svinhufvud against Ståhlberg in the 1931 presidential election.