Polish police arrested 12 people tied to an organised crime ring that siphoned money from religious groups across Poland and abroad from December 2020 to November 2025.
Operated from 2020 to 2025
The group was active from December 2020 until November 2025, mainly in Szczecin, but also in other Polish towns and abroad. Police investigations were coordinated by the Central Bureau of Criminal Investigation (CBŚP) under the West Pomeranian Branch of the Department for Organised Crime and Corruption.
Twelve Arrested for Scheme Involving Religious Groups
On December 1, 2025, authorities detained twelve people suspected of running the operation. The CBŚP stated that all suspects used labour‑union units of religious associations to raise financial resources and hide assets. The case implicated the Szczecin Religious Municipality, a unit of the Natural Church.
Charges Cover Fraud, Money Laundering and Incitement
The suspects face charges of leading and participating in an organised crime group, fraud against the Church Fund, falsifying data sent to the Social Insurance Institution, and attempts to obtain undue benefits or inflate payouts. Prosecutors also accuse them of obstructing enforcement proceedings and laundering money. One individual was additionally charged with inciting serious crimes that caused severe bodily injury and deprivation of liberty. Press officer Krzysztof Wrześniowski confirmed the allegations.
Polish Church Fund Loses Millions
CBŚP estimates that the Church Fund suffered losses of at least 6 million Polish zlotys. Prosecutors are working with the bureau to delineate the group’s exact operations and locate all persons linked to the scheme.
Current Custody and Investigation
Four of the arrested are under temporary detention, while the others are subject to police supervision and a financial guarantee. The investigation continues to identify all individuals involved.
