Police Raids on Lake Ohrid Find 9 Drunk Operators and 52 Vessel Violations

On 5 July 2026, police from the Lake Ohrid border‑surveillance station, together with officers from the Regional Centre for Western Borders and harbour inspectors, carried out coordinated checks on the waters of Lake Ohrid. A total of 63 vessels were inspected. Violations were recorded at 31 vessels and against 31 operators, amounting to 52 separate breaches of the internal navigation law. Reported offences included lack of required safety equipment, operation of unmarked or unregistered vessels, navigation during a ban, absence of navigation permits, and transporting more passengers than allowed. Alcohol tests showed that nine individuals were under the influence while operating their vessels. In addition, five persons renting pedal‑boats were found to have failed to apply basic safety rules. The Ministry of Internal Affairs said the inspections will continue throughout the summer season to enforce the navigation law and improve safety for tourists and local users of the lake.