Riga police investigate flag tied to Vanšu Bridge

The Riga Municipal Police have launched an administrative offense process following the discovery of a flag, identified as belonging to the former Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, tied to the eyelets of the Vanšu Bridge on October 14.

Authorities are currently reviewing video footage from municipal police cameras, patrol vehicles, and surrounding surveillance systems to identify the individuals responsible and determine their motives. While the exact reasons for the act remain unknown, public debate has emerged regarding whether the incident was a deliberate protest or a provocation.

The incident involved bypassing preventive anti-climbing bars on the bridge. Under the Law on Administrative Offenses, the act is being investigated as a disturbance of public order. Violators could face a warning or a fine of up to 500 euros for individuals, and up to 5,000 euros for legal entities.