Ground-penetrating radar deployed to hunt for migrant tunnels on Belarus border
After the first known tunnel used for illegal border crossing was found in Augšdaugava municipality, Latvian authorities launched Operation "Werewolf," using ground-penetrating radar to scan soil along the Belarus border. The goal is to proactively detect possible tunnels rather than wait for further violations.
Since August 14, Latvia's Border Guard and State Police have been conducting enhanced checks along the Latvia–Belarus border using ground-penetrating radar to search for hidden tunnels that could be used for illegal border crossings. The checks began after a first known underground tunnel was discovered in Augšdaugava municipality, through which migrants had attempted to enter Latvia illegally.
The radar technology allows officials to analyze soil structure and detect unusual changes in ground layers that may indicate digging activity. When the data points to a suspicious location, a more thorough on-site inspection follows.
A proactive approach to threats
Interior Minister Jānis Dombrava (National Alliance) said that immediately after the tunnel was found, officials were tasked with finding technical solutions to check the entire stretch of border considered at risk. According to the minister, the principle is not to wait for the next violation but to actively search for and prevent attempts at illegal entry.
Operation "Werewolf"
The checks are part of the broader Operation "Werewolf," aimed at reinforcing security along Latvia's eastern border. The operation combines resources from both the interior and defense sectors, expands the use of modern technology, and improves information sharing between agencies.
