Police: officers did not violate duties by asking children to leave the Žemaitaitis meeting in Kaunas
The Lithuanian police department affirmed that officers acted appropriately when they requested children to leave a political event in Kaunas, clarifying that they are not authorized to remove individuals from open public events at the request of organizers if no legal violations occur.
In a recent statement, the Lithuanian police department informed that officers did not breach their duties by requesting children to leave the Žemaitaitis political meeting held in Kaunas. This announcement follows inquiries into the conduct of police officers during the event. The department emphasized that police are not permitted to remove attendees merely on the organizer's request, provided those individuals are behaving legally and without disturbing public order.
This clarification was communicated to the members of parliament, including Arvydas Anušauskas, highlighting the principles of law enforcement concerning public gatherings. The police emphasized the need for respect for democratic processes while balancing the rights of individuals participating in political events. The officers are expected to maintain public order without overstepping their authority in such scenarios.
The implications of this statement stress the importance of clear guidelines for police conduct during public events, particularly in politically charged environments. By asserting that legal actions can only be taken against individuals acting unlawfully, the police provide reassurance to citizens regarding their rights at public gatherings while reinforcing the integrity of law enforcement practices in Lithuania.