Migrant-dug tunnel discovered at Latvia-Belarus border in Silene

Overnight into Tuesday, a underground passage, or tunnel, believed to have been dug by migrants was discovered in the area guarded by the Silene border guard unit along Latvia's border with Belarus. Interior Minister Jānis Dombrava of the National Alliance party told journalists on Tuesday that this was the first time such a case had been recorded in the border area.

Discovery at the border

The tunnel was found in the territory under the responsibility of the Silene border guard post, which adjoins Belarus. The minister confirmed the discovery but did not provide further details about the tunnel's dimensions, the circumstances of its discovery, or how it might have been intended for use.

Context

The Latvia-Belarus border has long been a location where attempts at illegal crossings have been recorded. Previously, reports focused mainly on above-ground crossing attempts, so the discovery of a dug tunnel points to a new method not previously documented, potentially used by organizers of illegal migration.

The case suggests that new ways of circumventing border protection measures continue to be sought along the eastern border. The Interior Ministry and border guard are treating the situation as a serious signal that may require additional caution and stepped-up monitoring in that particular border section.

It remains unknown whether the tunnel was actually used to cross the border, how many people may have used it, or when it was dug. The responsible authorities continue to assess the situation.