Watch ⟩ Tax and Customs Police Under Scandal Begins Work as Separate Ministry of Internal Affairs Institution
Latvia's Tax and Customs Police has officially become a separate entity under the Ministry of Internal Affairs as of January 1st, with former Criminal Police chief Andrejs Grišins appointed as its head.
The Tax and Customs Police (NMP) of Latvia, which has been plagued by regular scandals, officially transitioned into a separate institution under the oversight of the Minister of Internal Affairs starting January 1. The appointment of Andrejs Grišins, the former chief of the Criminal Police, as the head of the NMP, signals a significant restructuring aimed at improving the agency's image and operations. Alongside Grišins, Aigars Prusaks has been appointed as the deputy, continuing his role from the previous leadership.
This reform marks one of the most substantial changes within the State Revenue Service in recent years, as highlighted by Finance Minister Arvils Ašeradens. The process of restructuring has been described as arduous, spanning two years. Ašeradens noted that the existing legislative framework was so convoluted that even a small government adjustment, such as transferring one agency's responsibilities, could lead to considerable legal ramifications. The transition required extensive legal modifications and oversight, emphasizing the complexity and challenges of governmental reforms in Latvia.
As discussions surrounding disciplinary measures against the NMP leadership continue in court, the establishment of the agency as a separate body is seen as an attempt to regain public trust and mitigate the ongoing controversies surrounding its operations. The effectiveness of this restructuring will likely depend on how well the new leadership can navigate these challenges and restore credibility to the Tax and Customs Police, which has faced scrutiny regarding its conduct and oversight in recent years.