KNAB probes Olaine mayor and officials over alleged misconduct

Latvia’s Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau (KNAB) has opened two criminal investigations into alleged wrongdoing in Olaine municipality, including possible involvement by mayor Andris Bergs, LSM reported.

KNAB confirmed that searches and other investigative actions took place in Olaine, including at the municipal administration, in the first half of November.

One case, opened on October 13, concerns possible abuse of official position for financial gain. It was later expanded to include suspected fraud committed by a group acting under a prior agreement. KNAB is investigating the possible unlawful use of funds from Olaines ūdens un siltums, a company owned by the municipality. Four people have the right to a defence in this case: a company official and employee, a board member of another company, and an individual.

The second case, opened on September 29, concerns possible abuse of official position for financial gain and incitement to commit that offence. Investigators are examining several suspected episodes in which the mayor may have abused his position to secure unjustified advantages for himself and others. Five people have the right to a defence in this case, including three municipal officials, one municipal employee and one entrepreneur.

KNAB did not provide further details. Olaines ūdens un siltums reported turnover of 10.46 million euros and profit of 524,783 euros in 2025, according to Firmas.lv. The company was registered in 1994, has share capital of 13.988 million euros and is wholly owned by Olaine municipality.