National Prosecutor’s Office investigates organized criminal group involved in environmental crimes and tax fraud, with 10 people detained including former officials.
Investigation Overview
The National Prosecutor’s Office is supervising an investigation into an organized criminal group allegedly involved in crimes against the environment and financial crimes, including fictitious waste trading and tax fraud.
The proceedings are being conducted by the Łódź Regional Department of the National Prosecutor’s Office’s Department for Organized Crime and Corruption, with spokesperson Katarzyna Calów-Jaszewska confirming the investigation’s scope.
Criminal Activities
The investigation includes fictitious waste trading and the use of unreliable Waste Transfer Cards that misrepresented the actual location of waste storage, including hazardous and carcinogenic materials. Authorities are also examining tax evasion related to VAT and CIT liabilities.
Detentions and Charges
In January, 10 individuals were detained, including a former mayor and municipal company presidents. They face charges of participating in an organized criminal group and endangering public health, under specific articles of the Penal Code.
First Phase of Investigation
Beginning in autumn 2022 in the Podlaskie Voivodeship, investigators examined a former gravel pit in Zambrow County. The property, allegedly acquired through a front man, contained containers marked as infectious material, unidentified substances, and various types of waste.
Second Phase of Investigation
In Inowrocław County, 4 individuals were detained for allegedly creating a mechanism for illegal waste dumping on municipal properties. Those detained include another former mayor, two municipal company presidents, and a property owner.
Ongoing Investigation
Suspects are accused of monitoring law enforcement activities to hinder the investigation. The Prosecutor’s Office has applied preventive measures including police supervision and property guarantees, with applications for temporary arrest filed against some individuals. The investigation continues to develop.
