RIGA, May 18 (LETA) - Saeima Defense, Internal Affairs and Corruption Prevention Committee today supported the government's decision to extend the state of emergency in several Latgale municipalities until August 10.

As reported, taking into account the increased pressure of illegal immigration, the Latvian government last year declared a state of emergency in Ludza, Kraslava and Augsdaugava counties, as well as in Daugavpils.

The Ministry of the Interior has indicated that, although the number of persons crossing the Latvian-Belarusian border illegally has decreased, border guards are still detecting cases of illegal border crossing. In February, 863 persons were prevented from crossing the state border illegally, in March - 267 persons, and in April - 20 persons.

An important factor is the war started by Russia in Ukraine, which, according to media reports, is also supported by Belarus. Consequently, there is reason to be cautious about the decrease in the number of illegal border crossers on the Latvian-Belarusian border. Thus, heightened border surveillance, including the maintaining the state of emergency, should continue to be ensured.

The Interior Ministry has also indicated that dozens of people still try to illegally cross the Belarusian border with Lithuania and Poland on a daily basis. Consequently, in view of this situation, Lithuania has extended its state of emergency in border areas until June 29, 2022, while Poland has extended it until June 30, 2022.

It is therefore essential to ensure joint coordinated action between the countries on such illegal border crossings in order to ensure equal protection of the borders of the countries bordering Belarus.