# Latvian KNAB staffing and operational challenges

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/latvian-knab-staffing-and-operational-challenges
> Updated: 2026-09-12T15:49:59.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

The Latvian Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau (KNAB) is addressing operational challenges following the unexpected early retirement of former head Jēkabs Straume. Acting head Ineta Cīrule reported a significant shortage of operational staff, noting that higher education institutions have not produced enough investigators capable of managing complex cases over the last decade.

Despite these staffing difficulties, the agency reported that the number of initiated cases has not decreased, with four million euros confiscated in the first half of the year. To address personnel needs, KNAB has begun recruiting new undercover operatives. These roles involve information gathering, surveillance, and data analysis to identify criminal networks, requiring strict adherence to confidentiality and legal regulations.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-12: KNAB seeks new undercover operatives in Latvia

Latvia's Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau (KNAB) is seeking undercover operatives, offering a 2,000 euro gross salary during probation for roles involving surveillance and data analysis.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/knab-seeks-new-undercover-operatives-in-latvia

### 2026-08-25: KNAB faces shortage of operational staff, says acting head

Latvia's KNAB faces a shortage of operational investigators, though the agency reported four million euros in confiscations during the first half of the year.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/knab-faces-shortage-of-operational-staff-says-acting-head

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Cite as: Latvian KNAB staffing and operational challenges. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/latvian-knab-staffing-and-operational-challenges