Wire flash
Second underground tunnel found on Latvia-Belarus border; 28 illegal crossers arrested
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On 21 August 2026, the Latvian State Border Guard announced the discovery of a second underground tunnel used for illegal border crossings from Belarus into Latvia. The tunnel was found approximately 20 meters from the border near Kaplava in southeastern Latvia, covered with moss and brushwood. During the inspection, 28 individuals attempting to cross illegally were arrested. The first such tunnel was discovered on 10 August near Daugavpils, where 15 people in sand-stained clothing were detained. These incidents are part of intensifying migration pressure orchestrated by Belarus on Latvia's border. In response, Latvia launched Operation 'VILKATIS' on 11 August, deploying police, military, drones, helicopters, and aircraft for enhanced 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
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. In response, Operation "VILKATIS" was launched on 11 August to combat illegal migration.
Key measures include:
- Border guard supported by police and military
- Increased use of drones, helicopters, and aircraft for border surveillance
Statistics
- 2026 (to date): Over 9,500 attempted illegal crossings thwarted
- 2025: Approximately 12,000 illegal crossing attempts recorded
By Patryk Jagnieża 21 August 2026, 14:23
Tags: Belarus | Latvia | Migration | Hybrid Warfare | Border | Illegal Migrants
Source
Defence24.comWestern
Part of this Story
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