Last year, Latvia experienced a notable rise in the number of violations related to the circulation of pornographic materials, with a total of 344 criminal offenses reported, as stated by Armands Ruks, the Chief of Police, in an interview on Latvian Television's program "Rīta panorāma." This figure reflects an increase of 190 offenses compared to the previous year, highlighting a concerning trend in the country’s approach to handling such sensitive materials. Included in this statistic are cases where individuals have been unlawfully involved in the production of pornographic content, indicating deeper issues within the context of child protection and moral standards.

Ruks attributes the surge in such violations primarily to the proactive efforts of law enforcement in the online space, where police are actively identifying potential victims and individuals engaging in pornography-related crimes. He discussed a special platform designed to track and block attempts to access websites hosting child pornography, which has recorded approximately seven million attempted visits. This indicates a large underground demand and effort to combat illicit activities surrounding pornography and child exploitation, reflecting the challenges law enforcement face in the digital era.

In acknowledging the progress made in recent years to combat crimes against decency and gender-related offenses, Ruks emphasizes the need for continued vigilance and public awareness. The dramatic rise in reported violations suggests an urgent requirement for further steps and safeguards to protect children and vulnerable individuals from exploitation, showcasing the critical role of community engagement in creating a safer digital environment in Latvia.