'Lost tourists' in the forest might be Russian spies, Latvia warns
Latvia's intelligence agency warned on Wednesday that individuals who appear to be lost tourists, may in fact actually be Russian saboteurs or spies.
In its annual report, Latvia's Defence Intelligence and Security Service (MIDD) determined that Russian intelligence and security services posed the "main threat" to its national security.
MIDD shared advice on how to identify possible reconnaissance and sabotage operatives, listing a series of telltale signs — which include a slovenly appearance, mismatched military or sportswear, as well as a knack for asking locals suspicious questions.
The security service added that individuals may also carry specialised medical kits, as well as maps or radios — which are more suited to a clandestine operation than a camping trip.
It also warned that suspects may linger near military or critical infrastructure sites and pose as humanitarian workers, as well as stay in remote areas, without showing any interest in nature.
According to MIDD, Russian saboteurs might also attempt to incite unrest or assassinate 'socially significant individuals', adding that they may focus their activities on 'studying the position of the target country's society and inciting unrest directed against the existing government.'
The agency cautioned that appearances can deceive.
'The Ukrainian experience shows that Russian special services are able to adapt,' the report says. Not all spies will fit the mold, and suspicions must be judged in context.
It also warns that if a sabotage group is spotted, leave the James Bond heroics to the professionals.
'If you do think you might have spotted a sabotage group on Latvian soil, MIDD does not recommend tackling them yourself," it said. "Instead report your suspicions to the State Police, special services, or the nearest armed forces unit.'
According to the report, malign activities organised by Russia's intelligence and security services in 2024 targeted some of Latvia's symbolic commemoration sites, namely a memorial stone for Latvian legionnaires in the Džūkste parish which was splattered with red paint.
In light of similar incidents which also occurred in other Baltic states last year, Latvian security services promptly investigated the incident.
They determined in turn that Russian security services were behind the desecration, a provocation which intended to attract media attention, as well as increase fear and insecurity among Latvians.
The Latvian guidance comes as countries across the region, including new NATO members Sweden and Finland, have been issuing booklets with advice on how to survive war or a natural disaster.
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