Drones and cameras target illegal motorcycle rides in forests near Riga

Ropaži municipal police opened seven cases in late October over motorcycles and quad bikes being driven illegally in forests and nature reserves, LSM reported, citing Latvian Television. Police are increasingly using video cameras and drones to identify riders.

Many of the vehicles are rented, police representative Sandis Gedominskis said, so officers contact rental companies to establish who was driving. The typical offender is a man aged between 30 and 50, he said.

Off-road riding can damage forest ground cover, disturb wildlife and disrupt people walking in the woods. Riders may use forest roads or natural tracks, but must not leave them. Motorised vehicles are also prohibited in nature reserves, even on forest roads, said Ieva Geistere, a representative of Rīgas meži, a forestry organisation.

Motorcyclists are most often seen in these areas in spring and autumn, Ropaži municipal police said. Authorities use cameras, drones, barriers, signs and forest wardens to deter violations and identify offenders.

Rīgas meži has several dozen cameras and regularly moves them to different locations. Footage is shared with municipal police in Riga, Ropaži, Mārupe and Ādaži. Some cameras have been stolen or damaged, Geistere said.

Fines for violations of the Forest Law can reach 140 euros, while fines for offences in nature reserves can reach 350 euros.