In a significant development, both Latvia and Lithuania have opened separate criminal investigations into potential human trafficking linked to documents released by the US related to the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. These investigations come after the documents revealed connections to local modelling agencies and individuals, raising serious concerns.
Latvian Authorities Take Action
Latvian police announced that they are investigating the possible recruitment of Latvian nationals for sexual exploitation in the United States. The investigation follows the release of documents by the US Justice Department that included passport data and travel details for several models from Latvia. Police have urged potential victims to come forward.
- President Edgars Rinkevics called for a thorough examination of the allegations.
- Eriks Neisans, head of Natalie modelling agency, denied any wrongdoing.
Lithuania Launches Its Own Inquiry
Simultaneously, Lithuania’s prosecutor general has initiated a pre-trial investigation into dubious activities following reports linking numerous names in the modelling and arts sectors to Epstein’s files. President Gitanas Nauseda has also advocated for a principled investigation.
- Notably, some figures from the performing arts are boycotting the Midsummer Vilnius festival, a prominent event affected by these revelations.
- Festival promoter Valdas Petreikis, mentioned in the files, has denied wrongdoing and stated he was unaware of Epstein’s criminal activities.
Both nations are cooperating in their investigations, which aim to provide clarity and justice in light of the troubling accusations that have emerged from Epstein’s extensive connections worldwide.