Finnish President Sauli Niinisto on Friday appointed brigadier general Pasi Jokinen as the new commander of the Finnish air force, local media reported.

Jokinen, aged 51, last served as head of preparedness at the Defense Forces General Staff.

His predecessor Sampo Eskelinen did not seek renewal. Eskelinen has been charged for not acting quickly enough in ordering investigation into the misconduct of a colonel who is now facing several charges.

State prosecutor Sampsa Hakala this week asked the criminal police to start an initial review into the role of the commander of defense forces, general Jarmo Lindberg in the case. An actual police investigation has not been requested.