During the night, Ukrainian border guards prevented an attempt to secretly smuggle two unidentified individuals across the Dniester River into Moldova, warning of the so-called “walk in fins,” which could have led to serious consequences for the violators
The incident occurred in the Vinnytsia region, when the State Border Guard Service managed to thwart another illegal crossing attempt by applying a professional approach and clear control. According to official information received from the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine, during the night the border crossing point received a signal about suspicious movement of unknown persons toward the Dniester River. The efforts of the border guards, who returned to their primary duties of border protection, resulted in the detention of two residents of Dnipropetrovsk region, aged 48. According to the detainees, their main goal was to swim across the water body and reach Moldovan territory, but their plan was thwarted in advance thanks to the swift and coordinated actions of the border guards. During the detention, law enforcement officers found out that the violators were operating along specially designated routes — bypassing main checkpoints and navigating through field and bypass roads to remain unnoticed. It also turned out that they had prepared for this escape long in advance: their backpacks and equipment were fitted with waterproof valves and windbreakers — including life jackets and fins, indicating a serious attitude toward their upcoming “journey.” Additionally, the suspects packed their documents and valuables into airtight zip-lock bags to prevent damage in case of unexpected water obstacles. However, the border guard unit acted quickly and cohesively, preventing the “journey,” which was headed in an unpredictable direction, from progressing beyond the initial stage. As a result, the violators were issued protocols under Article 204-1 of the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses — “ illegal crossing or attempt to illegally cross the State Border of Ukraine.” This case once again confirms that Ukrainian border guards are working diligently to defend the country's sovereignty. By ensuring border security and blocking illegal escape or crossing attempts, they resist activities of malicious actors seeking to avoid lawful control and the consequences of their unlawful behavior. The authorities continue to call on citizens to strictly adhere to the laws and procedures for crossing the border, as any attempt to bypass the rules can have unforeseeable consequences both for the violators and for society as a whole.