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Meteorological devices containing thousands of packs of cigarettes have caused flight disruptions in Lithuania, as the country's main airport was compelled to shut down for an extended period when multiple of them drifted across the country's airspace.

Air Travel Interruptions

The temporary shutdown led to 30 flight cancellations affecting thousands of passengers, with airport representatives alerting that additional delays could occur throughout Monday.

Border Security Response

Authorities reported that 25 meteorological balloons were detected entering Lithuania from the adjacent country of Belarus, with two balloons ending up right above the airport's airspace.

Approximately 14 of the weather balloons deployed throughout the weekend floated over the metropolitan zone, which is home to Lithuania's primary metropolis and adjacent to the Belarusian boundary.

Contraband Recovery

A minimum of 11 balloons transporting 18,000 packs of contraband smoking materials have now been retrieved, though additional discoveries are expected, according to border security officials.

International Illegal Trade

While creating issues, authorities noted that "Weather devices carrying illegal goods - Belarusian smoking products - are not unusual in Lithuania, Latvia, and Poland."

So far this year, numerous meteorological balloons have been recorded entering Lithuania from Belarus, while approximately 966 had been noted during the prior year.

Neighboring Country Impact

Meanwhile, the border area of Poland, which likewise adjoins Belarus, has recorded more than numerous instances in which smuggled items were delivered from its border nation utilizing the meteorological equipment.

Smuggling Techniques

Regarding inquiries concerning why criminal organizations employ a method that is highly susceptible to weather conditions rather than more controllable drones, officials clarified that "Meteorological balloons are basic instruments used by illegal traders - they are cheaper than drones for moving tobacco products from Belarus."

Law Enforcement Objectives

Officials added that "The objective of our agencies is to capture the greatest possible amounts of illegal goods and to detain organisers and perpetrators so that such operations become unprofitable and create minimal risk to passenger aircraft."

European Tensions

The recent incidents occur during a time of heightened tension in Europe following multiple unmanned aircraft violations that have caused air traffic disruption across the continent.

Recent incidents in nearby states have prompted European leaders to accelerate discussions about strengthening air defences throughout the region.