Latvia, Legislation, Security

Reiniks has served as chief of the Security Police for 15 years.

''This was not a quick or easy decision, and it took me a while to decide to step down. In already a few months, Latvia will take over the rotating EU presidency, while the conflict in Ukraine has given birth to new challenges, which of course has influenced the work of the Security Police. However, I am confident that a competent specialist will be found amongst the Security Police to replace me, who has the experience and knowledge to prevent threats to national and international security, and is ready to lead the Security Police,'' Reiniks said in a statement to the media.

In his statement, Reiniks thanked all Security Police officials, institutions and cooperation partners, with which he has been able to help strengthen Latvia's national security all these years.

Reiniks has refrained from additional comments regarding his retirement at this moment.

Minister Rihards Kozlovskis (Unity) plans to announce the successor for Security Police Chief Janis Reikins on Monday, Kozlovskis confirmed to LETA.

According to law, the Security Police chief is appointed by the Cabinet of Ministers by recommendation from the interior minister.

Kozlovskis said that he has evaluated possible candidates, and a successor has already been chosen. He added that this person already works within the Security Police and has given his consent.