Last month in the field: October 2024

Spotted and stopped!

Last month, a joint Frontex and Montenegrin patrol pulled off a major success after spotting suspicious activity near the border. Four individuals were caught on hidden cameras carrying large sacks, which were quickly loaded into a car. Authorities moved fast, stopping the vehicle and finding an incredible 90 kilograms of marijuana packed in sealed bags.

This is a great example of how cutting-edge technology and seamless teamwork between Frontex and local authorities are helping to keep borders secure and disrupt criminal activity.

At EU borders, heartbeat detectors play a crucial role in helping border guards locate people hidden in transportation means like trucks. These devices can detect even the faintest signs of life, making it possible to save lives in dangerous situations.

Just this year, nearly 200 migrants were found using heartbeat detectors at the Kipi border crossing in Greece. Many of these individuals were discovered in extremely unsafe and cramped conditions, where their health-and often their lives-were at serious risk.

These detections are more than just about upholding border security; they are about protecting human life. By identifying and assistingthese migrants, border guards can prevent harm, provide necessary care, and stop human trafficking and exploitation. Every life saved is a step toward a safer, more humane system for all.

True cooperation matters!

In October, Frontex officers delivered a practical awareness session on stolen vehicles with the participation of Montenegrin Border Police officers within operation Montenegro.

The session allowed for exchange of best practices in the field of stolen vehicles and provided the participants with guidelines and instructions on how to develop and use in practice their knowledge and skills to identify some risks indicators on cross border crimes related to vehicles.