The application raises concerns over possible unlawful interference of the Prosecutor General into investigating a prior death threats criminal case; attention now turns to the upcoming review of the former official’s tenure
Riga, Latvia – Igor Sychev, a Russian refugee residing in Latvia, has submitted an official application requesting an investigation into the conduct of the Prosecutor General of Latvia (now former, but who most probably wants to take this position for the second 5-year term). The filing, made in early June 2025, pertains to concerns regarding the handling of a criminal case initially opened after Sychev reported receiving death threats.
Sychev has alleged that for more than a year, no progress was made in the investigation, and that the case was ultimately closed under strange circumstances. The reasoning cited in the case file included even an assumption, disputed by Sychev, that he may have threatened himself. In his application, Sychev has raised questions about the possible unlawful interference of the Prosecutor General to help the criminals (some Russian oligarchs) avoid any responsibility and has asked the competent Latvian authorities to review the behaviour of the Prosecutor General in this case.
Previously, Sychev also sent open letters to law enforcement seeking oversight and clarification on issues related to the investigation. But the criminal case was eventually closed. Sychev’s recent application reiterates his request for transparency and due process, as well as for an investigation into whether illegal interference occurred.
This is not the first time the Latvian legal system has faced calls for internal review, related to the Prosecutor General. On April 22, 2025, a separate application submitted by an employee of the Prosecutor’s Office led to an internal inquiry involving the then-Prosecutor General, Juris Stukāns. That investigation, however, was concluded without further serious action, but had an impact on the fact that the powers of the Prosecutor General were not extended at the first attempt (now a repeat competition for the position of Prosecutor General has been scheduled, and Juris Stukāns can participate in it).
Application Raises Concerns Over Prosecutor General’s Alleged Interference in Criminal Case
Riga, Latvia – Igor Sychev, a Russian refugee residing in Latvia, has officially filed an application requesting an investigation into the conduct of Latvia’s Prosecutor General, Juris Stukāns. The filing, submitted in early June 2025, highlights concerns over the handling of a criminal case involving death threats reported by Sychev. The case, which was closed under questionable circumstances, has raised serious questions about the Prosecutor General’s role and possible unlawful interference.
Allegations of Mishandling and Unlawful Interference
Sychev alleges that for over a year, no progress was made in the investigation of his reported death threats. The case was eventually closed with reasoning that included an assumption—disputed by Sychev—that he may have threatened himself. In his application, Sychev has called for a thorough review of the Prosecutor General’s behavior, suggesting possible unlawful interference to protect certain individuals, including Russian oligarchs, from accountability.
Calls for Transparency and Due Process
This is not the first time Sychev has sought clarity and justice. He previously sent open letters to law enforcement authorities, requesting oversight and explanations regarding the investigation. However, the criminal case was ultimately closed without resolution. Sychev’s recent application reiterates his demand for transparency, due process, and an investigation into whether illegal actions influenced the case’s outcome.
Previous Internal Inquiry into Juris Stukāns
The Latvian legal system has faced similar calls for internal review in the past. On April 22, 2025, an employee of the Prosecutor’s Office submitted an application that led to an internal inquiry involving Juris Stukāns. While that investigation concluded without significant action, it played a role in the decision not to extend Stukāns’ term as Prosecutor General during the first attempt. A repeat competition for the position has now been scheduled, and Stukāns is eligible to participate.
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Igor Sychev
