Polish authorities have discovered a fourth tunnel along the border with Belarus this year, used by migrants attempting to enter Poland illegally. The finding comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries, with Poland accusing Belarus of deliberately facilitating the movement of people to destabilize the region.
The latest tunnel was found near the Polish village of Narewka, northeast of Warsaw, according to a December 12, 2025, announcement by the Polish border guard. More than 180 people are believed to have used the tunnel to cross into Poland, with 130 already apprehended. A search is underway for the remaining 50 individuals.
The tunnel, approximately 1.5 meters in diameter, forced migrants to crawl through it. Its Polish entrance was located just ten meters from the fortified border, while the Belarusian side was about 50 meters away, both concealed within forested areas.
Migrants crossing the border originated from Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. Polish border officials were able to track the number of crossings due to the electronic surveillance system in place.
Police, military personnel, and canine units are assisting in the search for those who have not been arrested. Authorities have detained a Polish truck driver and a Lithuanian national on suspicion of transporting migrants further into Poland.
Poland alleges that Belarus is actively involved in the construction of the tunnels, noting the use of wooden supports and excavation through tree roots. Officials claim Belarus is collaborating with Russia to undermine Poland’s stability. Belarus and Russia have denied any involvement.
Similar tunnels were discovered earlier in 2025, including one near the village of Kondratki in October. The development underscores growing regional tensions and raises concerns about the potential for further escalation of migration-related pressures on Europe’s eastern border.
Previous tunnels discovered this year followed a similar pattern, with migrants utilizing underground passages to circumvent border security.
