The largest catch for law enforcement in recent years – discovering 11 kilograms of cocaine
Latvian police have seized 11 kilograms of cocaine and several other drugs from two suspected drug traffickers, estimated to be worth about one million euros.
On March 8, 2023, Latvian National Police arrested two men born in 2000 and 2002 during a raid. These individuals had not previously been on the police radar. In a sanctioned search at the residence of the younger suspect, officers discovered approximately 11 kilograms of cocaine along with three kilograms of marijuana, while further narcotics were retrieved from the second suspect's apartment, including an additional 10 grams of cocaine and 20 grams of marijuana.
The estimated street value of the substances confiscated is around one million euros, highlighting the significant scale of drug trafficking operations that police are targeting. In response to this incident, the police have initiated a criminal process regarding the illegal acquisition, storage, transportation, or distribution of narcotic substances with the intent to sell. The law stipulates severe penalties for such crimes, including potential imprisonment of five to 15 years, asset confiscation, and probation supervision for up to three years.
This significant seizure marks one of the largest for Latvian law enforcement in recent years, underscoring the ongoing challenges the country faces in tackling drug-related crimes. The authorities are likely to increase their efforts in combating organized drug trafficking and ensuring that those involved face stringent consequences as they work to enhance public safety and reduce the prevalence of illegal drugs in the country.