A Russian‑backed cell of foreign operatives, uncovered in Poland between 2021 and 2023, plotted sabotage of trains carrying weapons and aid to Ukraine, police say.
New Findings on the Sabotage Plots
Onet determined that a group of several dozen foreigners, recruited by Russian intelligence, had planned attacks on trains transporting humanitarian aid and weapons to Ukraine. At the time, 80% of such cargo moved through Poland.
In February–March 2023, authorities discovered six solar cameras transmitting footage from tracks near Przemyśl, Horyniec‑Zdrój, a logistics hub at Rzeszów‑Jasionka airport, and the Warsaw‑Siedlce line. Prosecutors say the goal was reconnaissance and establishing dates and circumstances of the shipments.
Arrested Operatives’ Additional Tasks
Sixteen individuals were arrested: twelve from Ukraine, three from Belarus, and one from Russia. Evidence showed they installed cameras, GPS locators on trams and vehicles heading to Ukraine, and planned sabotage such as derailments, arson, and vandalism.
They also printed propaganda leaflets, observed maritime ports in Gdańsk and Gdynia, and painted graffiti with anti‑Ukrainian slogans on the Sejm, Presidential Palace, and the U.S. Embassy in Warsaw.
Russian Recruitment via Telegram
The operatives were recruited through Telegram by a user nicknamed “Andrzej.” Payments were made in cryptocurrency. Documents show participants believed they acted in Russia’s interests, though awareness of the true client varied.
In December 2023, fourteen members faced trial in Lublin for espionage and organized crime. Artem A. was sentenced to six years’ imprisonment; Maria M. received the minimal sentence (duration not disclosed). All were fined 5 000 PLN to the Justice Fund and fined between 15 000 and 30 000 PLN.
Polish Sabotage Incidents
In mid‑November, two sabotage acts were detected. Near Puławy, suspects installed a steel cage around a track curve, likely to derail a train. In Mika, an explosive charge detonated on the tracks.
