On 29 November, Latvian State Security Service (VDD) asked the Prosecution Office to initiate criminal prosecution against a dual citizen of Estonia and Russia for assistance to Russian intelligence and security service in action directed against Latvia by conducting desecration of a memorial site important for Latvia on its behalf.
During the investigation VDD established that on 29 January 2024 in Tukums municipality, Džūkste parish the mentioned person together with an accomplice, acting on behalf of Russian intelligence and security service, desecrated the "Memorial Stone to Defenders of the Kurzeme Fortification – soldiers of the Latvian Legion" by pouring red paint on it. This action is assessed as a provocation with the aim to increase the feeling of insecurity and fear in Latvian society in accordance with Russia's interests. The investigation revealed that similar desecrations of monuments have also been carried out in the other Baltic States.
VDD initiated the criminal case for desecration of the memorial stone in Latvia on 8 February 2024 pursuant to Section 811 Paragraph 2 of the Criminal Law, i.e. for activities with the purpose to assist Russian intelligence and security service in action directed against the national security of the Republic of Latvia. On the same day, at the border control point Pāternieki VDD detained the suspect who is currently the subject of criminal prosecution request. The person has been applied the security measure – arrest.
VDD investigated this case in close cooperation with Lithuanian and Estonian partner services. Second person involved in the desecration of the memorial stone dedicated to Latvian legionnaires is currently in custody in Lithuania. This person is also a dual citizen of Estonia and Russia.
Information prepared by VDD
Photo by VDD
