Police complete probe into illegal cigarette network that cost Latvia €84.7 million

Latvia's State Police (VP) have completed a pre-trial investigation into an international organised crime group that illegally manufactured and smuggled cigarettes in Latvia and other European countries. Police estimate the group's activities caused the Latvian state losses of more than €84.7 million. The case has been passed to the Riga District Court Prosecutor's Office so that prosecution can begin against 16 suspects, including the person believed to be the group's leader.

How the group operated

The investigation established that the group was formed in August 2013 at the latest. It was engaged in large-scale tobacco smuggling, illegal production, storage and transport of tobacco products, and the laundering of criminal proceeds. To hide members' identities and their links to the properties and vehicles used, the group relied on conspiracy methods, including forged vehicle registration plates and specially made devices that interfere with covert investigative operations.

The police worked with Europol, Eurojust and the Prosecutor's Office. The case covered several interlinked offences, and at least 54 identified members took part in the group, including foreign nationals. Separate proceedings against a legal aid provider, a sworn advocate and a medical practitioner were split off from the main case and sent for prosecution.

Seized assets

During the investigation, 57 vehicles worth over €1.7 million, 108 properties worth €5.7 million and shares in 17 companies worth about €600,000 were frozen. Jewellery worth €6,150, about €46,000 in cash and nearly €62,000 in bank accounts were also seized.

Police comments

Pēteris Bauska, head of the State Police's Organised Crime and Serial Serious Crime Combating Department, said the network was professional, knew police methods and deliberately tried to obstruct the investigation. He also cited an alleged attempt by a sworn advocate to influence a witness, for which she was given suspect status.

The police stress that nobody is considered guilty until guilt is proven in the manner prescribed by law.