04-09-2024
New mobile X-rays at the Lithuanian Customs for the control of smuggling and sanctioned goods
Two new mobile X-ray control systems "Rapiscan Eagle M60" were presented today at the Medininkai border crossing point. UK-made "Rapiscan" X-rays will be used at the Medininkai and Kybartai customs road posts and will significantly shorten the inspection procedures, which will be possible within 10 minutes. In addition, with Western production purchases, the Customs gradually replaces old equipment and abandons Chinese equipment.
Minister of Finance G. Skaistė, who participated in the presentation of mobile X-rays, noted that this equipment will contribute to a more effective protection of Lithuania's borders from smuggling.
“The Lithuanian Customs controls the flow of goods to the East from the entire European Union. These new X-ray systems will not only look for smuggling but will also allow us to better control and prevent the transport of weapons, sanctioned or dual-use goods to hostile states. In addition, the new systems will speed up inspection processes and facilitate the work of officials by replacing old facilities,” Minister of Finance Gintarė Skaistė said.
Two mobile X-rays purchased by the Customs Department can be used as backups, for example, in the event of failure of control equipment in the posts, as well as in X-ray reconstruction cases, when existing old X-rays are replaced by new ones. If necessary, mobile X-ray systems can be used not only at the border, but also within the country, for example for checking cargo on the road or at the Polish border.
“Such modern X-ray systems clearly improve the conditions not only for customs officers, but also for legitimate businesses, including passenger checks, save time on border crossing and customs clearance, costs for unloading or stacking goods,” Darius Žvironas, Director General of the Customs Department, told.
The cost of each mobile system is EUR 3.19 million. One of them was acquired from national budget funds, the other from the programme for the purchase of Customs inspection equipment financed by the European Commission.
X-ray control system is the most effective non-interventional tool for checking vehicles, containers, transported cargo, allowing to: ensure adequate protection of Lithuania’s and the EU’s financial and economic interests, i.e. by fighting smuggling and reducing other shadow economy phenomena.
With mobile X-ray equipment, the customs officers will also be able to assist other services, such as the State Border Guard Service, in the search for illegal migrants.
