Smugglers use weather balloons to drop contraband in Podlaskie

Smugglers used weather balloons to transport large quantities of contraband over the Podlaskie region in Poland. In the village of Jaświły, a balloon landed on the roof of a building, leading to the discovery of 15,000 packs of cigarettes lacking Polish excise stamps.

Police reported a second incident in Jabłonka Kościelna, where balloon components were found in a field. Authorities have identified at least four balloon envelopes with attached loads during these recent operations.

Law enforcement officials, including the Podlaska Police, Border Guard, and Customs and Tax Service, are working together to combat this large-scale smuggling method. Police have issued an appeal to residents to remain cautious, avoid approaching any found balloons or attached packages, and immediately notify emergency services upon sighting such objects.