On Tuesday, news agency LETA reported that during a planned hunting inspection in the Ventspils district, the State Forest Service (VMD) uncovered illegal hunting activities conducted with motor vehicles and night vision scopes. Three administrative violation proceedings have been initiated against the hunters involved, and measures have been taken to suspend their hunting rights. The illegal activities were discovered in the 'Ance' hunting grounds, where VMD officials observed tracks on agricultural fields, indicating vehicles had been driving through the area.

Upon their return the following evening, VMD officials continued their surveillance and noted a suspiciously mowed corn field. They found no one manning the hunting tower, which heightened their suspicions. Around 10:30 PM, a Toyota Hilux vehicle approached the field, made a turn into the area, and stopped for about a minute before moving around the field. The VMD agents observed that the windows of the vehicle were down, suggesting that the occupants were searching for animals to hunt.

As VMD agents attempted to close in, the vehicle halted, and the occupants became aware of the inspections. This incident raises concerns about the governance of hunting practices in Latvia, particularly regarding potential misconduct by officials in charge of hunting regulations. The implications of this case could lead to further scrutiny of hunting policies and practices within the region, as well as the integrity of those enforcing these regulations.