Mariaana Sõnajalg, brand and marketing manager for Riigi Kinnisvara AS (RKAS), told ERR: "There is planned maintenance and renovations taking place at the memorial for victims of communism, lasting until August 21."

The Teekonna part of the memorial, between the walls, is closed during the period of maintenance.

Sõnajalg added: "Additional nameplates will be added and existing ones are cleaned and organized. In addition, lighting dimmers will be placed near benches and damaged metal constructions will be cleaned and re-painted."

The total cost of maintenance adds up to €51,000, with Haart Ehitus seeing the maintenance through.

In early-June, ERR News wrote that the Police and Border Guard Board (PPA) had initiated criminal proceedings on the basis of defamation of the dead after stars and other shapes were scratched into the memorial.

On Wednesday, the PPA told ERR they have identified the perpetrators and necessary proceedings have been carried out.

Annika Vanatoa, prosecutor of the Department for Juvenile Crimes and Crimes of Violence Committed in Close Relationships for the North Prefecture, told ERR that since the perpetrators are under 14 years of age, the criminal proceedings have been terminated as they can not be held responsible until they are adults.

Vanatoa added: "Their local child protection institution will be informed however, who can - within its competence - deal with the children and their families."

Formal events are scheduled at the memorial on August 23, Day of Remembrance for Victims of Communism and Nazism, also known as Black Ribbon Day.

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