Latvia has launched an operation named 'Lobisomem' to combat illegal migration from Belarus. This was announced by the Prime Minister of Latvia, Andris Kulbergs, at a press conference attended by military personnel and security service officers.
Kulbergs explained that the operation will last throughout August and will target individuals and networks of migrant smugglers who assist in the clandestine transportation and accommodation of people crossing through Latvia towards other European countries.
The Minister of Internal Affairs of Latvia, Jānis Dombrava, reported that on the night before Monday, a group of migrants attempted to dig a tunnel under the border between Belarus and Latvia.
Border police confirmed that 15 people attempting to illegally cross the border from Belarus via a tunnel they dug themselves were detained the previous evening. This was the first such case discovered by the authorities. The incident occurred in Skrudale, near the Silene border crossing, in the southeast of the country.
Although only attempts to bypass the fence have been registered so far, Latvia plans to investigate whether other tunnels have been built along the border with Belarus. The country accuses Belarus of stimulating illegal immigration as part of hybrid warfare and in response to European Union (EU) sanctions.
According to the State Border Guard Service, Lithuania recorded the entry of 1829 people across the EU external border through Latvia until July 29. Meanwhile, Estonian media reported approximately 90 migrants who managed to cross the border from Latvia.
Latvia does not have a direct land connection to Western Europe, unlike Lithuania, which borders Poland.
Kulbergs characterized illegal migration from Belarus as a form of 'hybrid warfare' against Europe, as well as a 'business' for smugglers, which, according to him, will be sharply reduced thanks to this operation.
An interdepartmental task force will conduct this mission. It includes specialists from the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as organizations and institutions responsible for tactical operations, the Armed Forces, the State Border Guard, and the police.
The Minister of Defence of Latvia, Ravis Melnis, stated that the group will use various unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and video surveillance systems 'for timely threat detection.' The Armed Forces have already mobilized additional personnel and equipment to support the border guard.
Kulbergs noted that data from UAVs and sensors regarding activity along the border will be synchronized, ensuring 'round-the-clock drone surveillance, seven days a week.'