Lithuanian border authorities have successfully intercepted illegal shipments transported by balloons from Belarus, which included 12,700 packs of illegal tobacco. These contraband operations were conducted by the Varėna border guard team, which involved multiple outposts including Kabeliai, Druskininkai, and Kapčiamiesčio, targeting areas in the Varėna and Lazdijai districts. The usage of GPS devices affixed to the balloons reflects a level of sophistication in these smuggling tactics, indicating that smugglers are resorting to creative methods to avoid detection.

The operation highlighted the challenging nature of these missions, particularly when one of the shipments ended up in the difficult terrain of the Čepkeliai Reserve in Varėna district. In an arduous effort, border guards trekked approximately 3 kilometers through deep snow to locate the cargo. The shipment contained 3,500 packs of Belarusian cigarettes, highlighting the ongoing issue of cigarette smuggling from Belarus into Lithuania, an issue that authorities continue to combat rigorously.

Authorities have launched a pre-trial investigation for illegal possession of excise goods, which demonstrates the serious legal implications for those involved in smuggling operations. The incident underscores the complexity of border security in Lithuania, particularly in relation to cross-border crime and the need for vigilant enforcement to protect the integrity of the country's customs and excise regulations.