A 26‑year‑old Latvian was arrested in Warsaw after attempting to enter the roof of the 43‑storey WarsawPresidential Hotel in April, faces a fine for illegal entry and weapons possession.
Attempted Breach of Critical Infrastructure
A 26‑year‑old Latvian named Ernests R. entered the WarsawPresidential Hotel in Warsaw in April, gained access to a secured zone listed as critical infrastructure, and tried to climb onto the roof of the 43‑storey tower. Polish security forces stopped him at the site.
Charges and Plea
Ernests R. faces two charges: violating the premises of a private residence and illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. He admitted guilt and expressed willingness to cooperate with authorities. The prosecutor seeks only a 2,000‑zloty fine under an accelerated procedure, with a possible prison term of up to eight years if tried normally.
Questions About Motive
According to the prosecutor, R. claimed he wanted to photograph Warsaw’s skyline. He failed to take photos of the hotel’s 40‑story bar, raising doubts about his stated purpose. In an interview, investigators described his explanation as naive and hard to believe. They noted he has no steady income, earning only 600–700 euros a month from occasional work, which raises suspicions of potential involvement in illicit activities.
Claims of Russian‑Linked Recruitment
Special forces investigator Stanisław Żaryn warned that people lacking stable income might be attracted to quick‑cash schemes, which Russia allegedly pursues following changes in its modus operandi in 2022. He suggested that such individuals could be drawn into more serious, potentially terrorist‑level cooperation.
Parallel ABW Operation
On Tuesday, former Prime Minister Donald Tusk briefed that the Polish Counter‑Intelligence Service (ABW) had arrested eight people across the country suspected of preparing sabotage acts, indicating heightened security concerns over foreign influence, following the incident.
