Latvian authorities detain Belarusian citizen for illegal migrant smuggling

Border guards and the State Police in Valmiera municipality have detained a Belarusian citizen suspected of illegal person smuggling. During a stop of a BMW vehicle, authorities discovered four individuals inside who lacked valid visas or residence permits. These individuals had previously crossed the Belarus-Latvia border illegally.

The driver is facing criminal proceedings under Section 285 of the Criminal Law regarding the illegal movement of persons across the state border during a period of enhanced border protection. Additionally, the driver was found to be in Latvia without having completed the mandatory threat prevention questionnaire required 48 hours prior to entry. The individual faces administrative liability for these violations as well.