Police in Warsaw intervened with journalist Michał Rachoń and his crew while filming near a military counterintelligence headquarters on March 17th.
Journalist Claims Police Sought Footage of Documentary
TV Republika reported that Michał Rachoń was “detained” by police and the Military Counterintelligence Service (SKW), with the station alleging an attempt to seize footage for a documentary titled ‘Zgoda’ (Consent).
The station’s program director stated police sought to view footage captured by their cameras, but they refused to release any materials.
Rachoń Maintains Journalistic Privilege
Rachoń stated he informed authorities that any access to the footage would require a legal process, emphasizing the material is protected by journalistic confidentiality.
He also instructed TV Republika staff not to contact the station or answer calls during the operation.
Police Confirm Investigation into a Petty Offense
Police confirmed they responded to a report from the SKW administrator and identified Rachoń as the person filming the facility.
According to a police spokesperson, no one was detained during the intervention, and an investigation into a petty offense is underway.
New Law Prohibits Filming Sensitive Sites
The investigation centers on Article 616a of the Act on Homeland Defense, which prohibits photographing objects crucial to national security.
This provision was introduced in August 2023 by the Law and Justice party, and further regulations enacted in April 2024 allow for fines or arrest for violations.
Military Cites Security Concerns
Military officials have stated the law was necessary due to observed attempts to gather information about critical infrastructure, including photographic data on troop locations.
