Inmates in several Latvian prisons have staged protests believed to be sparked by upcoming restrictions on modern gaming consoles, Delfi and later local news agency LETA reported on August 19.

Hundreds of inmates have refused to work, study or cooperate with staff in response to the Justice Ministry’s plan to crack down on their access to consoles, such as the Xbox and Sony PlayStation. Protests have been reported at facilities in Jelgava, Valmiera, Daugavgriva, and Liepaja.

“The functionality of video gaming devices has rapidly evolved in recent years, allowing them to be used not only for gaming but also for unauthorised communication,” the Prison Administration told Delfi, explaining the decision.

Inmates have previously been caught using consoles to contact criminal associates, arrange drug and phone deliveries, and even manage financial transactions.

Under the new rules, only older consoles without internet or data transfer will be permitted; modern devices with communication functions will be banned.

Authorities are briefing prisoners on the changes to “prevent misunderstandings and ensure order”, while those holding so-called “risk devices” are being urged to hand them in voluntarily, Delfi and LETA said.