In 2025, the Internal Security Bureau operated with increased intensity, with the number of investigated criminal proceedings rising by 19% and the number of submissions increasing by 11%. Of the 1,240 submissions received, 72% fell within the Bureau’s competence. A total of 401 anonymous reports were received, including via hotline and email, leading to the initiation of two criminal proceedings.
During the year, the Bureau conducted pre-trial investigations in 144 criminal proceedings, including 52 newly initiated cases and 40 cases received from other investigative authorities. Pre-trial investigations were completed in 72 cases, marking an increase compared to the previous year.
Assets seized in 2025 included nine vehicles, valuables, four immovable properties, and cash exceeding EUR 20,000, with the total value of seized assets surpassing EUR 157,000.
A total of 48 criminal cases involving 80 offences were sent for prosecution, with recommendations to prosecute 55 individuals, including 47 public officials. Key trends include increases in unlawful disclosure of restricted information (+17%), excessive use of authority involving violence (15%), abuse of office (4%), inaction (4%), and bribery (4%). Notably, 54% of offences were committed off duty, primarily involving traffic-related violations and crimes against property, the economy, and personal health.
During the reporting period, courts issued convictions against 39 individuals, including 26 public officials and one legal entity.
In the area of crime prevention, the Bureau implemented 87 preventive measures (+9%), focusing on public awareness, risk assessments, and institutional cooperation. It also carried out educational activities and issued recommendations to address risks related to the unlawful disclosure of restricted information.
Significant legislative changes in 2025 expanded the Bureau’s mandate, including new authority to investigate offences committed by Prison Administration staff, with further expansion foreseen from 2026.
The Head of the Internal Security Bureau, Igors Jaunrodziņš, stated: “In 2025, the workload of the Internal Security Bureau increased significantly across pre-trial investigations, the assessment of submissions, and preventive activities. At the same time, we maintained consistent investigative effectiveness and ensured the high-quality progression of criminal proceedings. The growing number of public submissions and reports reflects increasing public trust in the Bureau and a willingness to contribute to strengthening the rule of law. This also places greater responsibility on us—to continue developing staff professionalism and to ensure efficient, objective, and independent investigations.”
In 2025, the Internal Security Bureau continued to strengthen international cooperation and expand electronic information exchange. Bureau representatives participated in 13 international conferences and experience-sharing events, enhancing professional capacity and promoting the adoption of best practices in criminal investigation. In autumn 2026, the Bureau will host in Riga the annual conference of the Internal Criminal Investigation Network (ICIN), demonstrating Latvia’s expertise in the field of internal criminal investigations.
In 2026, the Internal Security Bureau will continue its targeted development, reinforcing its role in ensuring the rule of law and public safety. Priorities will include efficient and high-quality pre-trial investigations, with a focus on serious and particularly serious crimes, offences committed by public officials for personal gain, as well as crimes involving violence and money laundering. At the same time, the Bureau will further develop preventive activities, focusing on at-risk groups, children and young people, and strengthening cooperation with public institutions, non-governmental organisations, and society at large.