Banditry in Riga: prosecution to bring charges against 11 people for kidnapping
State Police has recommended bringing charges against 11 people for banditry and kidnapping in Riga. An armed gang kidnapped a man from his residence in central Riga on 25 March.
Armed gang kidnaps man in central Riga — 11 people may face charges
State Police sent the criminal case to the prosecutor's office on 8 October, recommending criminal prosecution be initiated against 11 people for banditry and kidnapping, the police informed news agency LETA. The matter is also reported by Diena.
The criminal group's activities were disrupted in spring of this year. On 25 March, four gang members arrived at a man's residence in central Riga, kidnapped him and placed him in their car. Two criminals took the victim away from the scene of the incident, while another two drove away a vehicle belonging to the victim.
Police successfully managed to detain four gang members and simultaneously free the victim. Three more accomplices were detained later. The investigation established that several members of the group were already in a place of detention, where they are serving sentences for previously committed offences.
During the investigation, evidence was also obtained regarding other offences committed by these people — making threats, intentional arson of a vehicle, as well as unauthorised acquisition and possession of narcotic substances, including in large quantities. A criminal act related to unauthorised possession of communications devices in a place of detention was also established.
Police emphasised that the gang was armed — its members possessed firearms and ammunition. One gang member was found to have forged personal identification documents.
During the investigation, several searches were carried out, which resulted in obtaining significant evidence. State Police consolidated previously initiated criminal cases into one investigation. Five people were subject to a security measure — detention.
Police are not currently providing detailed information about the circumstances of the offence and possible motives.
Source: Diena