Seven-person group suspected of thefts in Vidzeme; police seek additional victims
State Police in Vidzeme has uncovered a group of seven individuals who allegedly committed multiple thefts in rural properties this spring. The items stolen included diesel fuel and garden equipment, later sold through pawnshops and social media. The group includes two minors.
The State Police (VP) has initiated eight criminal proceedings related to a group of seven individuals operating in the Vidzeme region. The investigation revealed that the group consisted of two minors, five persons aged up to 19, and one 38-year-old. The crimes occurred between March and May of this year in the Valmiera and Limbaži municipalities.
According to police information, the group members, after prior agreement and role distribution, carried out thefts in rural properties. They primarily stole diesel fuel from agricultural and forestry machinery, as well as garden equipment and tools such as a "Husqvarna" brush cutter, an "ECHO" leaf blower, a "Makita" angle grinder, a "Grunder" pressure washer, wrench sets, and various spare parts.
In some cases, the group scouted potential targets by surveying and observing properties beforehand. The stolen diesel fuel was used for the group's own needs, while other items were handed over to pawnshops or sold on social networks.
The criminal proceedings are classified under Section 175(3) of the Criminal Law, which carries a penalty of up to five years' imprisonment or alternative sanctions. The VP continues its investigation to identify all victims and determine any possible links between the suspects and other crimes.
Police are urging residents who may have suffered similar thefts in the Valmiera or Limbaži area during the mentioned period and have not yet reported them to call 112 or visit the nearest police station.
