Interior Minister Igor Taro says that last week over 40 people were caught. They are suspected of illegal stay in Estonia.
Taro said the situation is difficult. Therefore, Estonia has extended its border guard mission in Latvia. He did not specify the exact end date.
Taro said they are trying to work until cold weather arrives. When it gets cold, illegal migrants suffer in the forests of Belarus. Then their numbers decrease.
The Minister said illegal migrants come in waves. In Belarus, they are gathered into groups and sent across the border. This is organized activity.
Estonia asked for help from Finland. Initially, it was planned to send Finnish border guards to the airport and port. Now they are cooperating in other places too.
All illegal migrants caught in Estonia are sent back to Latvia. Latvia has a good deportation system.
Estonia's detention center can accommodate 255 people. Currently there are fewer people there, as many have been sent to Latvia.
The Rae municipality is concerned because many migrants claim to be minors. Social workers have to help them.
Taro said the problem is understandable. Solutions must be sought together with the Social Insurance Board.