Wire flash
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. The discovery marks an escalation in hybrid warfare tactics, as previous illegal crossings involved exploiting gaps or jumping over the barrier. In response, Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs announced Operation VILKATIS, deploying military support, drones, helicopters, and aircraft for 24/7 surveillance. Latvia has faced significant migration pressure since early 2026, with over 9,500 thwarted crossing attempts so far, compared to 12,000 in all of 2025. Meanwhile, Poland reports only 235 illegal crossing attempts in the first half of 2026, a sharp drop from 15,500 in the same period last year, indicating the pressure has shifted to Latvia.
Source report
Latvian authorities have uncovered a tunnel near the border with Belarus, marking a new method of illegal crossing attempts. The discovery was reported on Tuesday by Janis Dombrava, head of the Latvian Ministry of the Interior.
Key Details of the Discovery
- Local border guards detained 15 individuals wearing sand-stained clothing near Daugavpils.
- The tunnel was located approximately 10 metres from the border fence.
- Authorities have ordered a reconnaissance of the area to determine whether additional tunnels or passages exist nearby.
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
In response to ongoing border pressure, Riga 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 faced sustained pressure on its border with Belarus:
- Over 9,500 illegal crossing attempts have been thwarted so far this year.
- In 2025, approximately 12,000 such cases were recorded.
Situation on the Polish Border
Poland is currently not experiencing similar pressure on its border with Belarus. Incidents remain irregular and low-intensity, with some days recording no crossing attempts at all.
According to data from the Polish Ministry of the Interior and Administration:
- 235 illegal border crossing attempts were recorded in the first half of 2026.
- For comparison, the same period in 2025 saw 15,500 attempts.
By Patryk Jagnieża 11 August 2026, 14:28
Tags: Belarus | Latvia | Hybrid Warfare | Border | Illegal Migrants
Source
Defence24.comWestern
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