Lithuania detains 27 in probe into cigarette smuggling network

Lithuanian law enforcement authorities have uncovered a large-scale cigarette smuggling operation involving the use of weather balloons, with 27 people detained in connection with the case, officials said.

The Criminal Police Bureau and the Prosecutor General’s Office said the investigation involves an organized network allegedly responsible for tracking, retrieving, and distributing illicit tobacco shipments transported across borders via balloons, Caliber.Az reports per Lithuanian media. 

Deputy Commissioner General of the Lithuanian Police Marius Draudvila said those detained include 13 police and border guard officers, as well as one municipal employee.

Investigators said the group used GPS devices and encrypted communications to monitor the landing sites of balloons carrying contraband cigarettes before collecting and distributing the goods.

Authorities carried out 74 searches during the operation, seizing thermal imaging equipment, drones, GPS transmitters, radio communications devices, masks, and packaging materials.

Prosecutor General’s Office spokesperson Martinas Jovaisa said the investigation includes two pre-trial proceedings, one of which was already underway and has since been expanded. Some suspects face charges not only related to smuggling but also for “aiding a foreign state in actions against Lithuania,” although authorities said the charges may evolve as the investigation continues.

A separate related case involving another suspected criminal group in the Alytus and Varėna regions is also under investigation. Police said there is currently no threat to public safety.

By Sabina Mammadli