Lithuanian authorities report two drone incidents in restricted zones this week

Lithuania’s State Security Department (VST) recorded two separate incidents this week involving unauthorised drone flights in restricted airspace, the agency announced on Friday, LRT reports.

A 23-year-old individual was detained on Monday in Klaipėda district after photographing a protected Litgrid energy infrastructure site—a facility of strategic importance—using a mobile phone. Authorities confiscated the phone and a camera for investigation. The suspect faces administrative proceedings for violating restrictions on photographing strategic objects, with potential fines ranging from €200 to €400. Equipment used in the offence may also be confiscated.

On Wednesday, VST’s Fly Safe drone-detection system identified an unauthorised drone flight near Vilnius Airport’s no-fly zone. Officers traced the drone’s launch location and detained a 38-year-old operator. The individual was fined €200 for violating aviation regulations, with administrative proceedings initiated against them.

Lithuanian law prohibits drone operations in designated restricted zones, including areas around critical infrastructure, airports, and military sites. Violations are subject to administrative penalties under aviation safety and national security laws.