Latvian flag desecration: arrests made in Daugavpils and Preiļi

Latvia's State Police regional department in Latgale launched two criminal cases last week over desecration of national symbols, following incidents in Daugavpils and Preiļi.

Incident in Daugavpils

On August 21, police received a report that unknown individuals had torn the Latvian national flag from its holder in Daugavpils and thrown it to the ground. Officers from the South Latgale precinct quickly identified the suspects, who were detained and placed in short-term custody. According to police, the individuals were reportedly under the influence of alcohol at the time, and one of them filmed the incident.

Incident in Preiļi

On the evening of August 22, police were informed that in Preiļi two people had attempted to damage a state flag, while a third was carrying a flag slung over their shoulder. Initial information suggests the young people may have removed flagpoles from apartment buildings. Officers from the North Latgale precinct swiftly identified the suspects, and three young people were detained on suspicion of desecrating a state symbol and placed in short-term custody.

Investigation continues

In both cases, police say they will continue to establish the motives of the detained individuals. The criminal proceedings were opened under Article 93 of the Criminal Law, which covers tearing down, tearing apart, breaking, destroying or otherwise desecrating the state coat of arms or flag, as well as public desecration of the national anthem. The offense carries penalties of up to three years' imprisonment, short-term imprisonment, probation supervision, community service or a fine. Police note that no person is considered guilty until proven so under legally established procedure.