Skinhead group detained in Riga: four arrested, including three minors
State Police detained four individuals on 29 October, including three minors, on suspicion of arson and violence against homeless people. Searches uncovered skinhead paraphernalia, knives and knuckledusters.
Skinhead group in Riga detained for arson, violence and child pornography
State Police, in co-operation with the State Security Service, detained four individuals on 29 October suspected of involvement with a skinhead group in Riga. According to Apollo, the detentions followed several searches at the residences of the individuals.
Among those detained are three minors and one adult. All four individuals identify themselves as skinheads and visually identify with this movement.
Seized items and charges
During procedural actions, searches revealed characteristic skinhead paraphernalia: clothing, boots, badges, images and masks. Additionally, knuckledusters, knives and other items resembling weapons were found, which, in the assessment of investigators, were most likely used in the offences under investigation.
The criminal case has been qualified under several articles of the Criminal Law. First, under Article 150, Section 3 — for inciting social hatred and discord associated with causing bodily harm to persons in a group; this carries a maximum penalty of up to four years' imprisonment. Second, under Article 185, Section 2 — for intentional arson of another's property; the maximum sentence in this case is up to ten years' imprisonment. Third, under Article 166, Section 2 — for unlawful distribution of pornographic material involving minors; this carries a penalty of up to three years' imprisonment.
The investigation has also established that individuals involved in the group who have not reached the age of fourteen are included.
Legal status of minors
The three minors have been ordered a measure of security not involving deprivation of liberty, and they have been recognised as suspects. Regarding individuals who had not reached fourteen years of age at the time of committing the offence, a decision will be made to refer the materials to court for the application of educational compulsory measures.
State Police notes that criminal liability commences from the age of fourteen; however, in the case of younger minors, the prosecutor is entitled to apply to court for educational measures.
Appeal to parents
The investigation in the criminal case continues, and further information will not be provided at this time in the interests of the investigation, State Police announced.
At the same time, police urge parents to monitor their children's behaviour and day-to-day changes — their interests, clothing, circle of friends, as well as the content children consume on electronic devices. It is important to notice changes in good time and act preventatively, State Police emphasises.
Police remind that no one is considered guilty until guilt is proven in the manner prescribed by law.
Source: Apollo