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Meteorological devices containing thousands of packs of cigarettes have interfered with air travel in Lithuania, as the country's main airport was forced to close for hours when multiple of them entered the country's airspace.

Air Travel Interruptions

The temporary shutdown led to the cancellation of 30 flights impacting thousands of passengers, with officials warning that additional delays could occur throughout Monday.

Border Security Response

Officials confirmed that multiple atmospheric balloons were spotted infiltrating Lithuania from neighboring Belarus, with a pair of them ending up right above the main terminal.

Up to 14 of the weather balloons deployed throughout the weekend drifted across the capital region, which is the location of Lithuania's main urban center and close to the frontier with Belarus.

Contraband Recovery

A minimum of 11 balloons containing eighteen thousand packages of contraband smoking materials have since been recovered, though this number could rise, according to customs agents.

Regional Smuggling Pattern

Although causing problems, officials emphasized that "Meteorological equipment transporting smuggled items - tobacco products originating in Belarus - are not unusual in the Baltic region and Poland."

Since January, over five hundred weather devices have been documented crossing into Lithuania from Belarus, while 966 were noted during the prior year.

Neighboring Country Impact

At the same time, the north-eastern Polish territory, which likewise adjoins Belarus, has recorded more than numerous instances in which illegal goods were transported from its border nation utilizing the meteorological equipment.

Criminal Methodology

Regarding inquiries concerning why criminals use a method that is especially affected by weather elements rather than simpler to operate drones, representatives elaborated that "Meteorological balloons are basic instruments used by smugglers - they are less expensive than drones for moving tobacco products from Belarus."

Law Enforcement Objectives

Authorities continued that "The objective of our agencies is to seize the largest possible volumes of smuggled items and to detain organisers and involved individuals so that this activity become unprofitable and create minimal risk to passenger aircraft."

International Concerns

The recent incidents occur during a time of growing anxiety in Europe following multiple unmanned aircraft violations that have created aviation problems across the region.

Recent incidents in nearby states have prompted European leaders to speed up talks about enhancing aerial security throughout the continent.