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Meteorological devices containing thousands of packs of cigarettes have disrupted flights in Lithuania, as Vilnius Airport was compelled to shut down for an extended period when dozens of them entered the country's airspace.

Aviation Problems

The airport closure led to thirty canceled flights affecting thousands of passengers, with officials warning that delays might continue throughout Monday.

National Security Measures

Authorities reported that multiple atmospheric balloons were observed crossing into Lithuania from neighboring Belarus, with a pair of them ending up right above the main terminal.

Up to 14 of the weather balloons sent during the weekend drifted across the capital region, which is the location of Lithuania's capital city and close to the frontier with Belarus.

Contraband Recovery

No fewer than 11 balloons transporting 18,000 packs of contraband smoking materials have now been retrieved, though this number could rise, according to border security officials.

Regional Smuggling Pattern

Despite the disruption, representatives clarified that "Balloons with contraband - tobacco products originating in Belarus - are common occurrences in the Baltic region and Poland."

To date in the current year, 544 balloons have been documented crossing into Lithuania from Belarus, while nearly a thousand were noted during the prior year.

Neighboring Country Impact

Meanwhile, the north-eastern Polish territory, which also borders Belarus, has registered in excess of 100 cases in which illegal goods were transported from its border nation utilizing the balloons.

Illegal Transport Methods

When questioned about why criminal organizations employ a method that is especially affected by weather elements rather than simpler to operate drones, authorities explained that "Meteorological balloons are rudimentary tools used by contraband transporters - they are less expensive than drones for transporting cigarettes from Belarus."

Security Service Goals

Representatives further stated that "The goal of law enforcement is to confiscate the maximum possible quantities of contraband and to detain organisers and participants so that this activity become economically unsustainable and do not pose risk to passenger aircraft."

International Concerns

Such border infiltrations occur during an era marked by increased concerns in Europe following numerous drone incursions that have created aviation problems across the region.

Recent incidents in adjacent nations have led European authorities to fast-track conversations about strengthening air defences throughout European airspace.