Law changes foresee tougher sentences for migrant smuggling

Amendments have been tabled by the Saeima Speaker Edvards Smiltēns (United List) on August 18, proposing to punish migrant traffickers only with prison sentences, excluding the possibility of temporary deprivation of liberty, community service, or fines for these violations.

The amendments would include a sentence of up to two years for the illegal transfer of a person across the state border. The law currently provides for such a punishment, but also allows for temporary deprivation of liberty, probation supervision, community service, or fine.

On the other hand, if persons were illegally transferred across the border by an official using their position of service, or by a group of persons, following a previous agreement, or in one case the illegal movement of several persons across the border of the State, Smiltēns proposes to determine the deprivation of liberty for a period of 2 to 5 years with or without seizure of property. At present, the law also provides for temporary deprivation of liberty, probation supervision, community service, or fine.

“In view of the seriousness of the situation and the increasing security risks, it is envisaged to review the amendments to the Law in the Saeima as soon as possible,” the United List said in a statement to the media.

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