MINSK, 28 April (BelTA) – The special services carried out a prisoner exchange based on a five-for-five formula at the Pererov crossing along the Belarusian-Polish border. A BelTA correspondent provides the details.
The location of today’s meticulously planned operation lies deep within the Belovezhskaya Pushcha, hidden from prying eyes. Such a location was convenient for both sides. Only some of the returnees have been named so far. Returned from Polish territory are Belarusian intelligence officers Aleksandr Balan and Vladislav Nadeiko, along with two Russian citizens, archaeologist Alexander Butyagin and Nina Popova. Sent to the other side are Andrzej Poczobut, as well as Polish citizens Grzegorz Gawel and Tomasz Bieroza.
Experts describe the exchange process as unique. “The final stage took place along the state border between Poland and Belarus. On one side was the State Security Committee of the Republic of Belarus; on the other, Poland’s Foreign Intelligence Agency and Internal Security Agency. It was a complex and lengthy process that lasted about a year,” said Lieutenant Colonel of Justice Aleksandr Tarasevich, Deputy Head of the Investigative Directorate of the Belarusian State Security Committee.
The KGB officers were acting on the orders of Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko, who personally conducted negotiations with the leaders of the countries involved. “Initially, the discussion focused exclusively on the interests of Belarus and Poland. But, as we all know, everything in this world is interconnected. In the end, the special services of seven states became part of this process. We maintained contacts through well‑established, ongoing channels with Polish intelligence, as well as with the special services of other nations across the globe. The State Security Committee actively worked alongside our CSTO allies and other friendly countries,” said Aleksandr Tarasevich.
The leadership and officers of Russia’s Federal Security Service made a significant contribution, conducting joint operations with their Belarusian colleagues at a highly professional level during the most challenging stages.
“I want to thank everyone who took part. What we saw today is a clear demonstration of the principle set forth by the president of Belarus: settling all matters through peaceful, diplomatic means and compromise always leads to an outcome that benefits everyone. We believe this principle can and should be used to resolve every pressing issue and conflict in the region. The Republic of Belarus has that will,” Aleksandr Tarasevich remarked.
Those returned from the Polish side were warmly welcomed on Belarusian territory, congratulated on their release, and presented with flowers and gifts on behalf of the president of Belarus. They will receive high‑quality medical care, and all conditions will be put in place to address their personal and family matters. “The president of the Republic of Belarus has instructed the chairman of the State Security Committee to provide maximum assistance to our intelligence officers. These officers, putting their own lives and health on the line, have steadfastly and courageously carried out their duty to their homeland,” said Aleksandr Tarasevich.
For those returned to Belarus, all worries about their future, the uncertainty, and other ordeals are now behind. Now they can breathe out and relax – they are home.
Photos by Violetta Yuzhakova
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