The Czech Republic has announced the implementation of border controls with Slovakia in response to migration, according to Prime Minister Petr Fiala (ODS). Minister of the Interior Vít Rakušan (STAN) stated that the controls will be random and cover the entire border length.
Prime Minister Fiala emphasized that the numbers of illegal migrants entering the EU are increasing again. He stated, “We take this issue seriously and respond swiftly. Through these controls, we will be able to ensure our citizens’ safety better.”
Furthermore, he highlighted that the Czech Republic is actively combating human trafficking and the exploitation of human suffering.
The Ministry of the Interior announced that random police controls will be conducted from midnight on Wednesday along the entire length of the border with Slovakia. In the initial phase, approximately 130 police officers will be involved in the controls.
“As part of a coordinated approach with neighboring countries, the Ministry of the Interior proposes to the government to extend these measures for ten days, until October 13,” the ministry stated in a press release. Any further extensions will depend on the current situation.
Minister Rakušan explained, “Random controls at the Slovak borders will help us effectively combat smuggling networks. These measures are temporary, and we approach them in close coordination with Poland.” He expressed confidence that the controls will minimize disruptions to cross-border traffic.
Permanent border controls were implemented at the Czech-Slovak borders in late September of last year due to an influx of migrants. The government lifted these measures at the beginning of February.
Slovak Prime Minister Ľudovít Ódor commented on introducing controls by the Czech Republic and Poland, stating that migration requires a European solution. He warned that individual actions could lead to a cascading effect.