Wire flash
Second Tunnel Found on Latvia-Belarus Border; 28 Illegal Migrants Arrested
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On 20 August 2026, Latvian border guards discovered a second underground tunnel dug under the border with Belarus, located about 20 meters from the border near Kaplava in southeastern Latvia. The passage was concealed with moss and brushwood. During the inspection, 28 individuals attempting to cross illegally were arrested. The first tunnel was found on 10 August near Daugavpils, where 15 people in sand-stained clothing were detained. These discoveries come amid intensified migration pressure orchestrated by Belarus. In response, Latvia launched Operation 'VILKATIS' on 11 August, deploying police, military, drones, helicopters, and aircraft for border surveillance. To date, over 9,500 illegal crossing attempts have been thwarted in 2026, compared to approximately 12,000 in all of 2025.
Source report
Author: Patryk Jagnieża
Border services have discovered a second underground tunnel used for illegal crossings of the Latvian-Belarusian border. The passage, covered with moss and brushwood, was found on Thursday approximately 20 metres from the border near Kaplava in south-eastern Latvia.
Previous Discovery
The first tunnel was discovered on 10 August. At that time, local border guards detained 15 individuals wearing sand-stained clothing near Daugavpils. That passage was located approximately 10 metres from the border fence.
Rising Migration Pressure
In recent weeks, migration pressure orchestrated by Belarus on the border with Latvia has intensified. Key developments include:
- 11 August: Launch of Operation "VILKATIS," aimed at combating illegal migration.
- Support forces: Border guards are being assisted by police and the military.
- Surveillance assets: Increased use of drones, helicopters, and aircraft for border monitoring.
Statistics
- 2026 (to date): Over 9,500 attempted illegal crossings have been thwarted.
- 2025: Approximately 12,000 such cases were recorded.
Tags: Belarus | Latvia | Migration | Hybrid Warfare | Border | Illegal Migrants
Source
Defence24.comWestern
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