31 knives seized in Liepna asylum centre – hidden under pillows and mattresses

Latvian State Police conducted preventive monitoring measures on 27 June at two asylum seeker centres – Liepna and Mucenieki. The raid was carried out in cooperation with other security authorities, including the use of canine units. A total of 499 individuals were checked.

In Liepna, several violations of internal regulations were detected – knives were stored under pillows and mattresses instead of designated areas. A total of 31 knives were seized. Discussions were held with the centre's management about potential security risks. In Mucenieki, a small amount of marijuana was found on one person, leading to an administrative process and forensic examination.

Interior Minister Jānis Dombrava (National Alliance) announced the raids on Twitter. The minister had previously criticised the management of the Mucenieki centre, which led to the appointment of a new director, Vita Klubure, who also serves as head of the Asylum Seeker Accommodation Department. Dombrava also stated he expects progress in returning illegal immigrants who have fraudulently obtained asylum seeker status.

The State Police noted that such checks are conducted regularly in public places, asylum centres, hostels, educational institutions and elsewhere. They also verify the legal stay of third-country nationals in Latvia. Police emphasised that these monitoring measures will continue in the future.