Media reported a staff shakeup at Poland’s State Protection Service after the Premier’s Lexus was stolen, sparking controversy over officials’ leave and security practices.
Tusk’s Lexus Stolen; Media Report on \”Staff Shakeup\” in SOP
On Wednesday, Radio Eska and Super Express claimed a “staff shakeup” at the State Protection Service (SOP) following the theft of Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s Lexus. The outlets alleged that the director and deputy director of the protection unit had lost their positions, and that the SOP commander, General Brigade Radosław Jaworski, was to be sent for compulsory six‑month leave. A spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior and Administration explained that the leave was a delay that the commander had been entitled to and is now finally being used, and that no disciplinary action had yet been taken against any officials. The ministry is awaiting a detailed report on what occurred.
“Nothing Matches.” SOP Officer Responds to Media Claims
The officer clarified that the Prime Minister’s office is monitored 24/7 with full surveillance and other protective measures, and that such an incident should not have been possible. He suggested that guards may have failed to notice the theft, possibly because they were asleep, calling the oversight a shameful lapse. He emphasized that the vehicle in question—equated to the personal security level of the President—undergoes intensive protective checks, and that no gap should exist for any official. The officer noted that the director and deputy director remain in their posts and that no disciplinary steps are being taken against them.
Tusk on SOP: “When I Am Dissatisfied, I Thank the Person for Cooperation”
Prime Minister Donald Tusk addressed the allegations, stating that he does not critique the protection services. He described the SOP as sometimes overly protective and said he feels “over‑protected” rather than under‑protected. Tusk added that odd situations occasionally arise, and that when he is unhappy with someone, he thanks them and offers the role to someone else, reinforcing that he wishes speculation to stop and that he is decisive in such matters.
