Latvia's Security Service Raids Mnogoknig Bookstore Chain Selling Russian-Language Books

Latvia's State Security Service (VDD) carried out searches at four locations belonging to the Mnogoknig bookstore chain on the afternoon of September 3. Among the sites inspected was the chain's largest store, located on Augusta Deglava Street in Riga, which was closed to customers during the operation. A notice posted on the door stated the store was shut "for technical reasons."

Speaking to the news outlet Delfi, VDD representatives confirmed that the searches were carried out in connection with a criminal case opened on July 28 of this year, on suspicion of violations of European Union sanctions. The agency did not provide further details about the nature of the case, citing the need to protect the investigation.

Mnogoknig is a bookstore chain whose offerings include Russian-language literature, among other products.

Background

The searches come just days after a new restriction took effect in Latvia on September 1, banning the import of certain goods from Russia and Belarus for resale within the country. The ban covers books, newspapers, and other printed materials, along with several other categories of goods.

It remains unclear whether the searches are directly linked to the newly enforced import restrictions, though the timing suggests a possible connection to rules governing the origin and import of goods from the two countries.