Illegal immigrants in Riga's capital are handed a one-month ultimatum to depart by the city's vice mayor
In the heart of Latvia, Riga's Vice Mayor, Edvards Ratnieks of the National Alliance, has issued a call for illegal immigrants to depart the city and the country within a month. This urgent plea comes amidst growing concerns over the increase in illegal immigration, particularly from African countries, and the impact it has on the city's safety and security.
According to reports, 15 African migrants have recently arrived in Riga from Belarus and Russia, adding to the growing number of illegal immigrants in the city. These individuals, described as looking lost and disoriented, are seeking contact with others in similar situations. However, the Latvian government has yet to clarify its plans for facilitating the departure of these individuals or the estimated number of illegal immigrants currently residing in Riga.
Ratnieks believes that being proactive is essential for future security in Riga. He cites the deteriorating criminogenic situation in countries like Sweden and France as a reason for his urging. He also points to examples such as Italy and Germany, where illegal migration has quickly worsened criminogenic situations.
The Riga Municipal Police have been active in their efforts to detect and handle illegal immigrants. This year, they have detained and handed over an average of less than three persons per month, in stark contrast to 23 in the previous year and 24 in 2023. Of the 22 detained this year, 15 are from African countries, specifically Sudan and Ethiopia.
Previously, the majority of illegal immigrants in Riga were from Central Asia. However, this year has seen a significant shift, with the number of immigrants from African countries in Riga increasing. Despite this, the Municipal Police Chief, Juris Lukass, has stated that when an illegal migrant is detected, they are handed over to the State Police or Border Guard.
Migration has been a key issue in the National Alliance's campaign for this year's municipal elections in Riga. Residents of the city have reported feeling less safe due to the rising illegal migration, and this concern has resonated with the political party. Yet, the National Alliance has not specified any consequences for those who do not comply with the vice mayor's request.
As the city of Riga moves forward, it remains to be seen how the Latvian government will address the issue of illegal immigration and ensure the safety and security of its residents. The upcoming months will be crucial in shaping the city's future. By the end of September, the Riga Municipal Police plan to launch extensive raids to detect and address the issue of illegal migration.
