Tractor Competition in Rēzekne Region Under Police Scrutiny After TikTok Videos Surface

Police have launched an administrative process concerning a tractor competition in the Rēzekne region after discovering video material on TikTok that indicated risks to participants and bystanders. The videos showed that the event potentially endangered the lives and health of those present.

As public events require coordination with local authorities, the State Police requested an explanation from the Rēzekne regional municipality. Municipal representatives confirmed that the event was coordinated based on the organizers' submitted plan and zoning. However, they emphasized that the municipality does not assume further responsibility for the event's actual proceedings. A remote meeting held before the competition, involving the municipality, police, and organizers, did not raise any objections or questions regarding potential incidents.

The municipality explained that current regulations do not provide legal instruments to prohibit an event if the organizer submits all necessary documentation. Meanwhile, the event organizers, who manage a local recreation area, reported receiving no official complaints from law enforcement or attendees. They see no violations in their actions, noting that volunteers managed order and public announcements urged attendees not to cross safety barriers. The organizers believe risks were primarily due to the imprudent actions of some attendees, which were impossible to fully control.

Despite the ongoing administrative process, the organizers intend to continue this tradition next year. They pledged to work further on enhancing safety measures. The State Police will make a final decision after receiving all necessary explanations and evaluating the materials. Violations of public event regulations can result in a warning or a fine of up to 400 euros for individuals, and up to 3,200 euros for legal entities.