Ukrainians detained in Paldiski found offer to transport migrants on social media

Two Ukrainian citizens detained in Paldiski on 4 October on suspicion of organising illegal migration had found a job offer on social media that promised earnings from transporting people. A court has approved placing both in custody for at least two months.

Prosecutor Laura Lajal said the 20-year-old man came across an advertisement on social media offering money for transporting people. Together with a 19-year-old, he decided to take up the offer, but a patrol's intervention prevented them from completing the offence. The prosecutor's office press service reported this on Wednesday.

"Organising illegal migration is not an accidental mistake, but an activity that requires preparation, contacts and a conscious choice," Lajal said.

Why custody was needed

According to the prosecutor, the evidence gathered indicates that the suspects had to be held in custody for the investigation. The inquiry found that the young men had the contacts and connections needed to organise such activity, so if released they could continue to break the law. Prosecutors also feared the suspects might evade the investigation. Lajal noted that the Ukrainian citizens have no ties to Estonia.

How the incident unfolded

On 4 October, at Paldiski's Northern Port, three foreigners who were in Estonia without legal grounds were found in the boot of an Audi bound for Sweden. They were partly hidden under a blanket and said they had come from Eritrea and Ethiopia.

The car was driven by a 20-year-old Ukrainian citizen with a residence permit in Sweden; his driving licence turned out to be forged. A second Ukrainian citizen, a 19-year-old, was also in the vehicle. Both were detained on suspicion of organising illegal migration.

In recent months, more and more illegal migrants have been detected in Estonia.