The authorities initially assume that the crash of a DHL plane in Lithuania was an accident. But they don’t want to rule anything out. Russia’s terror has long been a real danger in Europe.
A plane appears to be approaching to land, then a fireball rises above the treetops behind a hall. One person died and three were injured when a DHL freight plane from Leipzig crashed in Vilnius, Lithuania early this morning. The authorities initially assume an accident, but the investigation could take weeks. Until then, one suspicion hovers over the disaster: terror. Lithuania’s police chief said: “This is one of the versions of the crash that needs to be investigated and verified.”
Video | Investigating authorities comment on the plane crash
The suspicion is fueled by numerous suspected attacks in recent months.
In the summer, packages containing incendiary devices appeared in warehouses belonging to the logistics group DHL in Leipzig and Birmingham, UK, where they ignited. Both were sent by airmail and could have led to life-threatening situations during the flight. In Poland, a package set a DHL truck on fire, the daily Gazeta Wyborcza reported.
The Office for the Protection of the Constitution and the Federal Criminal Police Office then warned companies in the logistics industry of further attacks. The Federal Prosecutor General took over the investigation. And British and German authorities expressed the suspicion that the Russian state was once again striking.
For months, jamming systems stationed in Russia have been disabling the GPS signals of aircraft over the Baltic Sea. According to experts, the DHL freight plane that crashed was probably also affected by this in the last 30 minutes of its flight.
There is also particularly great concern that Russia could attack Western drinking water supplies. According to “Sverige Radio”, conspicuous burglaries are increasing in Sweden, in which heavy equipment is sometimes used, perpetrators evade surveillance cameras and do not touch potential prey at the crime scene. The same thing is reported from Finland. Similar break-ins in Bundeswehr barracks in Germany caused a stir in August.
While there have been no arrests so far, Lithuanian authorities are already one step further in the case of the incendiary devices in the DHL machines: several suspects were arrested around three weeks ago. Investigators from several EU countries are said to be involved in the process.
“We must neutralize and dismantle the source, and we know who is behind these operations,” said Lithuanian presidential adviser on national security Kęstutis Budrys. Specifically, he accused Russian military intelligence of being behind the package fires in several European countries.
How can the logistics sector enhance its security measures in the wake of potential threats?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Aviation Security Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good morning and thank you for joining us today. Following the tragic crash of a DHL plane in Lithuania, there are growing concerns about potential foul play, possibly linked to terrorism. Can you provide some context on the implications of this incident?
Aviation Security Expert (ASE): Good morning, and thank you for having me. The crash raises immediate questions, especially given the geopolitical tensions in Europe, particularly regarding Russia. The authorities are correct to investigate all possible scenarios while treating the preliminary assessment as an accident.
TNE: The initial reports suggest that one person has died and three were injured. Given the recent history of suspected attacks involving DHL, how significant is this incident?
ASE: It’s quite significant. While it’s too soon to draw definitive conclusions, the recent trend of attacks, like the incendiary devices discovered in DHL warehouses in Germany and the UK, suggests a disturbing pattern of targeting logistics companies. These incidents demonstrate a willingness to disrupt operations and potentially harm individuals.
TNE: That’s an alarming perspective. The Lithuanian police chief mentioned that terror is one of the versions to be investigated. How rational is this suspicion, considering what we’ve seen unfold recently?
ASE: It’s very rational. The logistics sector has become increasingly vulnerable, particularly in the context of political strife in Europe. The suspicion also reflects a broader concern about state-sponsored terrorism, especially with allegations against Russia. Authorities must explore this angle thoroughly.
TNE: We have seen warnings from agencies like the Office for the Protection of the Constitution and the Federal Criminal Police Office. How can companies in the logistics sector better prepare for potential threats?
ASE: Companies should implement stricter security protocols, enhance cargo screening processes, and foster communication with law enforcement agencies. It’s essential for firms like DHL to stay ahead of potential risks by sharing intelligence and collaborating on security measures.
TNE: What do you think the impact of this investigation will have on aviation and logistics industries in Europe?
ASE: The impact could be significant. There may be increased scrutiny and regulatory changes aimed at enhancing security in freight operations. Companies might also face higher operational costs and alterations to their logistical strategies as a result of heightened fear of attacks. However, it could also motivate advancements in technology and processes for greater safety.
TNE: how might this incident affect public perception of air freight and logistics safety?
ASE: Public perception could shift towards viewing air freight as a more risky mode of transport. Transparency in how incidents are handled and the steps taken to improve safety will be crucial for rebuilding trust. Continuous communication from companies about improvements in security measures will be key to reassuring the public.
TNE: Thank you so much for your insights. It’s clear that this incident has far-reaching implications, and we will continue to follow this story closely.
ASE: Thank you for having me. It’s important to stay vigilant and informed as this situation develops.