Within days of its installation outside Szczecin City Hall, a new 16‑meter municipal Christmas tree lost several distinctive red‑white baubles, caught on video and reported to police.
Tree Installed and Ornaments Vanish
On Saturday, a new municipal Christmas tree lit up outside the Szczecin City Hall. By Sunday night into Monday, several distinctive red‑white baubles had disappeared from the 16‑meter tree. A few others were damaged when the thief tried to remove them.
Video Shows Suspect Near Tree
Mayor Piotr Krzystek posted a video on social media showing a man walking near the tree for a while before reaching for the ornaments. The footage captured the suspect’s approach and subsequent attempt to take the decorations.
Mayor Calls for Public Care
The mayor urged caregivers not to let children plant seedlings, run, or play around the tree, calling it “our common property” meant to last many years. He also said that the same man had tried twice to steal ornaments and was caught on both occasions.
Police Reported
The theft was reported to police, who are investigating the incidents.
