On the night of October 23, in Daugavpils, on Andreja Pumpura Street, two men, who have already come to the attention of the police and have also been tried, drove up in an “Audi A6” car and went in the direction of a “Mercedes Benz” car, where two other men were at that moment, explained In the Latgale Region Administration of the State Police.
One of the criminals had a firearm in his hands, with which he threatened and fired a shot through the window, injuring the driver of the car, who was taken to a local medical facility.
Within a few hours, the police arrested two men – born in 1991 and 1988 – on suspicion of committing this crime. At the time of arrest, one firearm was confiscated from the men.
During a sanctioned search, law enforcement officers seized a second firearm from the men, which is similar to a 16-caliber sawed-off shotgun. The information available to the police indicates that it was probably used in the commission of a crime.
The law enforcement officers also seized 11 cartridges, one fired cartridge, clothes, a mask and other physical evidence.
Both suspects were placed in custody as a security measure. The police have started a criminal case for attempted murder.
Law enforcement officers continue to investigate and determine the motive of the crime. The “kompromat.lv” portal reports that the “city-known promoter Sergejs Parfjonov” was in the car that was shot at, but he was not injured in the incident.
According to the portal, the reason for the settlement could be related to a previous criminal conflict and the possible connection with Daugavpils council member Pēteri Dzalbi, whose car “Mercedes Benz” was recently set on fire, is being investigated.
LETA already wrote that a man was arrested for burning the car of Daugavpils council member, the executive director of the municipality of the Upper Daugava region and the publisher of the “Million” newspaper Dzalbe.
On Pumpura Street in Daugavpils on August 7 at 11:57 p.m., a man poured a flammable liquid from a bottle onto the hood and front windshield of a “Mercedes Benz” car belonging to a company. At midnight, the man set fire to the run-down car using matches.
As a result of the fire, the front part of the car was damaged, the left front wing of the car was burnt, the windshield, hood, left front tire and front bumper were damaged.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Law Enforcement Expert
Editor: Good morning, and thank you for joining us today. We’re here to discuss a shocking incident that occurred recently in Daugavpils, Latvia, where two men were arrested for attempted murder in a brazen attack involving firearms. To help us unpack the implications of this event, we have law enforcement expert, Dr. Elina Karpova. Dr. Karpova, thank you for being here.
Dr. Karpova: Thank you for having me. It’s an important issue to discuss, especially when it involves such serious criminal activity.
Editor: Let’s dive right into the details. We learned that on October 23rd, two men approached another vehicle and fired shots, injuring the driver. Given the alarming nature of this crime, what do you think motivated these individuals to carry out such a violent act?
Dr. Karpova: There are often various factors that lead to violent crime, especially involving firearms. In this case, we might be looking at personal conflicts or underlying criminal activities such as drug-related issues or gang rivalries. Since the assailants have prior encounters with the police, it’s plausible that they are involved in established criminal circles which can escalate to violence fairly quickly.
Editor: It’s notable that this incident occurred relatively late at night. Do you believe there’s a correlation between the timing of the attack and the nature of this crime?
Dr. Karpova: Absolutely. Nighttime often serves as a cloak for illicit activities, particularly violent ones. Perpetrators may feel emboldened under the cover of darkness, assuming fewer witnesses and potentially less immediate police presence. Additionally, nighttime encounters can heighten tensions, making people more prone to aggressive behaviors.
Editor: The police were able to apprehend the suspects quickly and seized multiple firearms and ammunition. How crucial is this rapid response in preventing further violence?
Dr. Karpova: Swift police action is critical. It not only removes potential threats from the streets but also sends a strong message to both the community and other criminals that such behaviors will not be tolerated. Immediate arrests can prevent retaliatory violence and reassure the public that law enforcement is active and responsive.
Editor: The investigation revealed that one of the confiscated firearms was a 16-caliber sawed-off shotgun, believed to have been used in the crime. What does this indicate about the suspects and the nature of the attack?
Dr. Karpova: The use of a sawed-off shotgun is particularly concerning as it suggests a level of premeditation and sophistication. This weapon alters the dynamic of confrontational violence, increasing the likelihood of injury or fatality. It indicates that the assailants not only intended to intimidate but were prepared to inflict serious harm, which elevates the seriousness of the charges they face.
Editor: The article also mentions that both suspects are in custody while investigations continue. What steps typically follow such an arrest?
Dr. Karpova: Following an arrest, the law enforcement agency will gather evidence and conduct interviews to build a solid case. This includes examining the seized firearms, analyzing ballistic data, and working with forensic teams to compile a comprehensive overview of the incident. Prosecutors will then decide on the charges based on the evidence collected, while ensuring the suspects’ legal rights are upheld throughout the process.
Editor: Last question, Dr. Karpova. What can communities do to protect themselves and potentially deter violent incidents like this in the future?
Dr. Karpova: Community awareness and engagement are key. Education about reporting suspicious behaviors, the establishment of neighborhood watch programs, and fostering good relationships with local law enforcement can all contribute to reducing potential violence. Communities that are interconnected and vigilant are often more effective at deterring crime. Additionally, advocating for policies aimed at addressing the root causes of crime, such as poverty and lack of opportunity, can lead to long-term solutions.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Karpova, for sharing your insights on this grave matter. It’s crucial for the public to be informed and proactive in the fight against crime. We appreciate your time today.
Dr. Karpova: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important issue.