"Significantly more than usual." 32 migrants who arrived via Belarus and Latvia detained in Estonia
Over the past three days, Estonian police have detained 32 foreigners connected to the migration flow from Belarus on the Latvian border. The detentions took place in various districts of Tallinn — at a reception center in the Nõmme district, in the port, and in the city center. Information from a resident of Harjumaa helped law enforcement officers detain one of the groups, reform.news writes .
The detainees did not have identification documents, the police press service reported. According to preliminary data, they are citizens of various African countries.
They are believed to have arrived in Estonia via Belarus and Latvia. According to their statements, they then planned to travel through Finland to Western European countries.
"Over the past three days, the number of people detained for illegal border crossing is significantly higher than usual. In the case of such individuals, the primary task of the police is to ascertain the true origin of these migrants and their intentions within the Schengen area, to ensure public order and security in Estonia and throughout the Schengen area," stated Indrek Aru, head of the North Prefecture Border Guard Bureau.
Aru stated that illegal migration through Belarus in the direction of Latvia is organized and used as a tool of hybrid influence. According to him, increased control in Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia may also have influenced the increase in attempts to enter Estonia.
"Illegal migration is also facilitated by the summer weather, which makes movement easier. If you notice unusual groups of foreigners in border areas, especially in southern Estonia, who differ from so-called ordinary tourists, or actions indicating illegal human trafficking, you should report it to the police. Reasonable vigilance will help us respond faster and clarify the situation," he urged.
Estonian police reported that they have changed their work tactics in transport hubs and border areas, taking into account the increased migration pressure. In addition, Estonian law enforcement officers are assisting their Latvian colleagues, who are directly facing an increase in illegal crossings.
Most of the detainees have already undergone initial procedures, and a significant portion of them have filed applications for international protection in Estonia. By court decision, the foreigners have been placed in a detention center. The review of applications usually takes up to 4 months, but in individual cases, the period may be extended by another 2 months.
In case of refusal of protection, the foreigners will be expelled from Estonia.
In the first 6 months of 2026, 149 people were detained in Estonia for illegal migration.
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