Lithuania detains a truck where Russian license plates changed to Lithuanian ones with a single button press
In Lithuania, at the Medininkai border crossing point, two trucks were detained, likely used to circumvent sanctions against Russia. The incident occurred on March 18 during customs control. Both DAF brand trucks were transporting fruits and vegetables from the Netherlands to Russia. The documents listed a Lithuanian company, and the drivers were Belarusian citizens, reports the press service of the Lithuanian customs.
Photo: muitine.lrv.lt
During the inspection, Russian registration documents for the same vehicles were found in the cabins — with the same VIN numbers as the trucks registered in the EU. This raised suspicions, so the vehicles were inspected more carefully.
It turned out that both trucks had systems installed for changing license plates. In one case, it was a modern system: with a single button press, Lithuanian plates automatically changed to Russian ones. In the second, a simpler mechanism was used: the plates were changed manually with magnetic fasteners.
Photo: muitine.lrv.lt
The drivers could not explain why this was done. Given that EU legislation prohibits European carriers from operating in Russia, and Russian carriers from operating in the EU, there is suspicion that these schemes were used to circumvent sanctions.
It also emerged that both vehicles had previously been registered in Lithuania but were later re-registered in Russia. This could indicate an illegal transfer or use of transport.
Photo: muitine.lrv.lt
As a result, both trucks were detained. Their value is estimated at approximately 12,000 and 50,000 euros, respectively. Corresponding protocols were drawn up.
It is emphasized that this is the first such case in Medininkai where similar technical methods of circumventing sanctions have been uncovered.
Serious responsibility is provided for violating international sanctions. For companies, these can be large fines — from tens of thousands of euros to a significant part of the value of goods or even annual income, as well as confiscation. For individuals — fines, and in some cases even criminal liability with possible imprisonment for up to five years.
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