Latvian KNAB asks FBI for help checking US sanctions for suspended mayor of Ventspils

Latvian Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau (KNAB) has asked the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to provide information in relation to last year’s statement from the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the US Department of the Treasury that the suspended mayor of Ventspils Aivars Lembergs has been corrupting and influencing officials in Latvia.

In February KNAB reported having asked information from US authorities. Latvian corruption prevention office did not mention which institution was contacted in the US.

Now KNAB explains that in response to the OFAC statement multiple measures have been performed in accordance with an investigation to determine the details of possible illegalities committed by the suspended mayor of Ventspils.

During the investigation KNAB included uncovered details in its information system. The corruption prevention institution also continues monitoring compliance with sanctions imposed by OFAC, such as usage of funding of political parties.

On 25 August KNAB also confirmed sending a request for information to FBI, which has yet to provide its response.

Previously in a conversation with BNN US Department of the Treasury press-representative Zach Isakowitz said «The United States continues to work closely with the Government of Latvia to address corruption, as it deprives the Latvian people of resources, basic essential services, and economic opportunities.

On 9 December 2019, based on the so-called Magnitsky Law, OFAC imposed sanctions against Aivars Lembergs and four legal persons associated with him – Ventspils Freeport Authority, Ventspils Development Agency, Business Development Association and Latvian Transit Business Association – for corruption.

As noted by OFAC, Lembergs is accused of money laundering, bribery and abuse of power. Lembergs controls structures using political parties and corrupt politicians, and systematically uses these structures for personal economic gain.

OFAC states Lembergs has used his influence over political parties to compose ruling staff and put specific people in the government and ruin the chances of other government officials of getting leading posts. On top of that, Lembergs has influenced and corrupted law enforcement officials to protect his interests and undermine politicians he cannot control.

As it is known, for years Riga Regional Court has been viewing the criminal case in which Lembergs is accused of large-scale bribery, money laundering and legalization of other property, office fraud, participation in economic operations he is not allowed to participate in because of his official post, as well as abuse of power and other crimes. Among the accused are also Aivars Lembergs’ son Anrijs Lembergs and Lembergs’ business partner Ansis Sormulis.

In court debates, prosecutors have requested sentencing Lembergs to eight years in prison with confiscation of property, as well as fine of EUR 64 500.

The case is compiled in 200 volumes and two criminal procedures submitted to the court in the second half of 2008. Riga Regional Court commenced viewing this case on 20 August 2009.