Latvia’s KNAB Investigates Leak of Confidential IT Procurement Data

Rīga, Latvia – Latvian authorities conducted procedural actions in Riga on Wednesday related to a criminal investigation into the possible unauthorized disclosure of confidential information, the Corruption Prevention and Anti-Corruption Bureau (KNAB) confirmed to LETA. The investigation, initiated on March 11, centers on the alleged leaking of non-state secret, but limited access, information concerning IT procurements across various state institutions.

KNAB stated that three individuals currently involved in the criminal process have the right to legal counsel. These individuals include an official from the Ministry of Climate and Regional Development, a representative of the State Digital Development Agency, and a businessperson.

The investigation comes as the State Police (VP) concluded a large-scale operation on Monday, arresting 21 individuals, including state officials, in connection with a suspected €1.5 million IT procurement fraud, initiated by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO). According to a statement released by VP, the operation targeted an organized criminal group suspected of violations in state procurement procedures related to the acquisition of IT systems for state institutions.

While KNAB confirmed to LETA that its investigation is separate from the EPPO’s case, the timing of the two investigations has drawn scrutiny.

Jorens Liopa, former director of the State Digital Development Agency, now serving as Deputy Director of the Nature Protection Department at the Nature Conservation Agency (DAP), was reportedly absent from work on Wednesday and unreachable, according to DAP. The agency stated it could neither confirm nor deny whether Liopa was performing his duties.

The Ministry of Climate and Regional Development (VARAM) informed LETA that its State Secretary, Edvīns Balševics, is cooperating with law enforcement and providing all necessary information. VARAM noted that due to a non-disclosure agreement signed by Balševics, he could not provide further comment. VARAM confirmed that Balševics was at work on Wednesday and faced no restrictions in performing his duties.

KNAB indicated to LETA that the information in its possession suggests two state officials may have disclosed confidential information to a businessperson. The disclosed information pertains to IT procurements within various state institutions.