Man detained in Valmiera on suspicion of attempted robbery of a woman

The State Police of Latvia detained a man born in 1992 on the morning of 28 October on suspicion of attempted robbery in Valmiera. The incident took place on the evening of 22 October on Meža Street, where a man attacked a woman and tried to take her handbag. Police are urging anyone who may have suffered from similar actions by the man to come forward.

What happened

According to police, between 8:35 and 8:40 p.m. on 22 October, a man approached a woman from behind on the pavement on Meža Street and used physical force to try to wrench the handbag from her left shoulder. The pull made the woman fall, and she suffered a leg injury.

The man kept trying to take the bag but did not carry out his intention and ran from the scene without getting it. Police say he stopped for reasons that are unknown. The woman afterwards called the emergency number 112.

Investigation and detention

Criminal proceedings were opened. Officers of the Western Vidzeme precinct of the State Police Vidzeme Regional Department identified the suspected perpetrator, and the suspect was detained on 28 October. Police say the man had come to their attention before. A decision on a preventive measure for the detained man is expected shortly.

Police appeal

The State Police say Valmiera residents have no reason for concern, since the suspect is in custody and no other similar cases have been registered so far. The investigation continues, and police ask anyone who may have been affected by similar actions by the man, or who has information useful to the inquiry, to call 112.

Police also remind the public that no person is considered guilty until guilt in committing a criminal offence has been proven in the manner prescribed by law.