Police and the Public Prosecution Service can use investigative announcements as a means of investigation in criminal cases. The responsibility for this lies with the public prosecutor and the rules for using this means are outlined in the Guidelines for Investigative Announcements. There is always a careful weighing of interests where the requirements of legality, proportionality, subsidiarity, and effectiveness are leading.
Investigative announcements are frequently used, usually to ascertain the identity of a suspect. However, even if the identity is already known to the judicial authorities and the suspects have already been apprehended, this means can still be used. There must be a solid suspicion of a criminal offense punishable by a maximum prison sentence of at least 8 years, there must be permission from the chief public prosecutor, and it must be urgently necessary for the investigation. These conditions have been met in this case.
Photos and Names
The photos and names of these suspects have been shown because the investigation team is looking for people who have information about where these suspects have been after the art theft and with whom they have been in contact.
Urgently Necessary
Releasing the identity of a (apprehended) suspect is a significant measure and is rarely done. Nevertheless, the Public Prosecution Service, after careful consideration, has determined that it is urgently necessary in this case because the stolen art treasures have still not been recovered. This remains our priority.