Latvian man fighting for pro Russia rebels in Ukraine crisis

A Latvian man may be fighting for pro Russia rebels in the Ukraine crisis, security police say. 

The claims confirmed by several sources were being investigated on Monday.  The Security Police said it would be taking the matter very seriously, taking into account the severity of the conflict and the influence it has on the security situation in Europe.

The Security Police declined to give further details on the matter. 

The revelations come after an Italian newspaper reported last week that Baltic mercenaries are allegedly fighting for pro Kiev forces in Eastern Ukraine.

Il Giornale claimed that mercenaries of several European states are fighting with the pro Kiev Matzo volunteer battalion against separatists in eastern Ukraine. According to the newspaper, Swedish, Finnish, Baltic and French mercenaries are involved in the conflict.

The Russian Foreign Ministry called on European countries, including the Baltic states, to investigate the claims.

However, Estonian Foreign Minister Urmas Paet said the claims amounted to 'propaganda', Pastimes Online reports.

Karlis Eihenbaums, a press spokesman for the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs told The Baltic Times that it wasn't likely Baltic nationals were fighting in the Ukraine.

Elsewhere, Latvian resident Benzes Ai was placed under intense police watch last week for his links to pro Russia rebels in Ukraine. Photos show Ai decked out in military gear standing next to a tank in Crimea and shaking hands with leading figures of the pro Russia rebel movement earlier this year.

Rezekne based Beness Aijo reports to police twice and week and is not allowed the leave the country.