Latvia investigates illegal killing of brown bear in Ogre

Latvian State Police have transferred a criminal case to the Pierīga Prosecutor's Office regarding the illegal killing of a three-year-old brown bear in the Ogre Municipality. The incident occurred in the Taurupe parish in October 2025, when State Forest Service inspectors discovered the animal in a vehicle trailer.

Investigations identified a man born in 1972 as the individual responsible for the shooting. A second man, born in 1976, was cleared of involvement after authorities determined he did not participate in the crime. The suspect, who has not yet been apprehended, faces charges under Article 115 of the Criminal Law for the destruction of a specially protected animal.

Potential penalties include up to five years of imprisonment, probation, community service, or a fine. Additionally, the suspect may be required to pay 31,000 euros in damages. The incident involved the use of a hunting weapon with a thermal scope during nighttime hours.