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After the restoration of Lithuania's independence in 1990, the customs became one of the most important institutions protecting the state's borders. In a very short time, it was necessary to create an effectively functioning customs network that would help control cargo transported to and from Lithuania. In the first years, customs officers worked in extremely difficult conditions - there was a lack of equipment, infrastructure and experience. In those days, customs officers had nerves of steel, because they worked without knowing what the arriving OMON would do this time - maybe they would order them to sing the Soviet anthem, or maybe they would beat them until they lost consciousness. And although the police and ARAS stood by to help and protect unarmed customs officers, the events of July 31, 1991 in Medininkai became a painful reminder of the sacrifice of the officers and the dangers they faced. However, it must be understood that the Medininkai massacre was the culmination of the events of that time. Explosions, arson and violence against officers were everyday events at the dawn of Lithuanian customs.