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Latvia discovers first underground tunnel on Belarus border used by illegal migrants
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Latvian authorities have discovered an underground tunnel on the border with Belarus near Daugavpils, the first such passage found in Latvia. Interior Minister Janis Dombrava reported that 15 individuals in sand-stained clothing were detained near the site, located approximately 10 meters from the border fence. In response, Latvia launched Operation VILKATIS, deploying military support, drones, helicopters, and aircraft for 24/7 surveillance to combat illegal migration. Since the start of 2026, Latvia has thwarted over 9,500 illegal crossing attempts, following approximately 12,000 in 2025. Meanwhile, Poland reports low and irregular pressure on its border, with only 235 illegal crossing attempts in the first half of 2026, compared to 15,500 in the same period last year.
Source report
Latvian authorities have uncovered a tunnel near the border with Belarus, marking a new method of illegal crossing attempts, officials reported on Tuesday.
Key Developments
- Discovery: The head of the Latvian Ministry of the Interior, Janis Dombrava, reported that border guards detained 15 individuals wearing sand-stained clothing near Daugavpils. The tunnel was located approximately 10 metres from the border fence.
- Investigation: Authorities have ordered a reconnaissance of the area to determine whether additional tunnels or passages exist nearby.
- New Crossing Method: Previously, known methods of illegally crossing the Latvian border involved exploiting gaps or vulnerabilities in the border barrier, or jumping over it.
Operation “VILKATIS” Launched
Riga has announced the commencement of Operation “VILKATIS,” aimed at combating illegal migration.
Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs stated: “The border guard will be supported by the military, and a greater number of drones, helicopters, and aircraft will also be involved in surveillance. Full drone surveillance 24 hours a day, seven days a week is essential.”
Border Pressure Statistics
Since the beginning of 2026, Latvia has been facing sustained pressure on its border with Belarus:
- 2026 (to date): Over 9,500 illegal crossing attempts thwarted
- 2025: Approximately 12,000 such cases recorded
Situation on the Polish Border
Poland is currently not experiencing similar pressure on its border with Belarus. Incidents are described as irregular and low-intensity, with some days recording no attempts at crossing the Polish-Belarusian border.
According to data from the Ministry of the Interior and Administration:
- First half of 2026: 235 illegal border crossing attempts recorded
- First half of 2025: 15,500 illegal border crossing attempts recorded
By Patryk Jagnieża
Tags: BELARUS | LATVIA | HYBRID WARFARE | BORDER | ILLEGAL MIGRANTS
Source
Defence24.comWestern
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