Lithuanian dogs help Latvia detain 11 illegal migrants

Lithuanian canine units continue to play a significant role in border security for neighboring countries. Over two days, two groups totaling 11 illegal migrants were apprehended in Latvia with the crucial assistance of Lithuanian handlers and their service dogs.

On Monday, Latvian officials detected an illegal border crossing. A Lithuanian handler and his Belgian Malinois, Chico, quickly picked up the trail. They navigated difficult conditions, including swamps and dense forests, tracking approximately 2 kilometers into Latvian territory. There, they apprehended four individuals who had illegally crossed the border. During the operation, one person, suspected to be a guide, escaped. The Lithuanian handler and Chico pursued the escapee for another 1.5 kilometers until the trail led to a marshy lake, where the individual entered the water to hide. Further search in the water was called off due to the difficult conditions.

The following day, early Tuesday, Latvian authorities found a ladder against the border, discarded items, and tracks on their side. They requested assistance from patrolling Lithuanian border guards. A handler with a German Shepherd named Aja arrived and, alongside Latvian forces, began a search in a wooded, marshy area. Within half an hour, the dog located seven illegal migrants about 1.5 kilometers from the border. The group offered no resistance. In total, across both operations, 11 individuals were apprehended for violating the state border. Latvian authorities are handling further proceedings with the detained individuals.