Kidnapping of two hostages prevented in Riga region — recidivist detained
State Police detained a man born in 1979 who was preparing to abduct at least two persons for financial gain. The case has been referred to the Riga Regional Court Prosecutor's Office.
State Police prevents planned hostage abduction in Riga region
Google News LV — Crime (lv) reports that State Police have prevented the abduction of at least two hostages, detaining the suspect whilst the criminal offence was still in the preparation stage.
In January of this year, officials from the 1st Department of the Organised Crime and Serious and Serial Crimes Prevention Bureau of the Main Criminal Police Directorate, based on operational information, initiated criminal proceedings concerning a possible preparation for the abduction of at least two persons. The objective was to unlawfully obtain the financial resources of the abducted persons.
During the investigation, the criminal proceeding was reclassified in accordance with Article 154, Part 2 and Article 15, Part 3 of the Criminal Law — as preparation for hostage-taking.
In February 2026, in the Riga region, the suspect was detained — a man born in 1979. The very next day, Riga City Court imposed detention on him as a security measure. During a search at the person's residence, several items with evidentiary significance were seized.
The detainee has a previous criminal record: he has been convicted of a particularly serious criminal offence, and in September 2025 — also of incitement to indecency.
On 19 August of this year, the investigation in the criminal proceeding was completed and the case was referred to the Riga Regional Court Prosecutor's Office for the initiation of criminal prosecution. The suspect has been charged with preparation for hostage-taking.
For such a criminal offence, the law provides for deprivation of liberty from three to twelve years with or without confiscation of property, as well as probation supervision for a period of up to three years.
State Police remind that no one is considered guilty until proven so in the manner prescribed by law.
Source: Google News LV — Crime (lv)