Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner confirmed on Saturday the extension of border controls with the Czech Republic for an additional 20 days, starting from last Friday.
This decision stems from global security concerns, emphasizing the urgent need to combat human trafficking mafias and thwart terrorist threats.
In his statement, Karner underscored the significance of border surveillance as a critical measure against smuggling mafias.
The current global situation makes these controls also crucial for counter-terrorism efforts, as reported by the Middle East News Agency.
Karner added that border monitoring is essential not only for combating human trafficking but also as a strategy in the war against terrorism.
He pointed out that such measures partially stem from funding by smuggling mafias, and allow for thorough inspections of individuals at the border.
Furthermore, Karner highlighted that in addition to monitoring the Czech Republic border, Austria is conducting surveillance operations with Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, and on other borders with Italy, Germany, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.
He mentioned that intensified controls are in place in areas close to the borders.
It’s noteworthy that besides Austria, ten other Schengen Area member countries are conducting internal border controls.
These include France, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Italy, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Slovenia, and Poland.
This move reflects a growing trend among European nations to tighten border security in response to evolving global security challenges, balancing the need for safety with the principles of free movement within the Schengen Area.
