Customs officers down drone carrying contraband cigarettes

Lithuanian border guards shot down a drone carrying contraband cigarettes in the Šalčininkai district on Sunday, the State Border Guard Service (VSAT) reported.

The drone was detected via video surveillance near Daugidonys village, flying from the state border into Lithuanian territory. Using drone-jamming equipment, officers forced it to land. The drone was later found in a field near Dimitrai village, carrying a bundle of 200 packs of “NZ Gold” cigarettes with Belarusian excise stamps.

The cargo’s estimated value, including applicable taxes, was €1,102. An administrative investigation has been launched at the Purvėnai border checkpoint for violations related to the purchase and transport of excisable goods.

VSAT noted that border guards have intercepted 22 smuggling drones in the first five months of 2026. Last year, 59 drones entered Lithuania from Belarus, with 54 carrying Belarusian cigarettes in 2024.