A woman traveling from outside the EU was detained at Kraków Airport after customs officials discovered gun barrels in her luggage.
Woman Detained with Gun Parts
A woman arriving at Kraków Airport from a non-EU country was subjected to a detailed customs and tax inspection after initially declaring “nothing to declare.” During the search of her luggage, officials found two 9×19 Parabellum caliber pistol barrels, considered essential firearm parts.
The traveler faces up to eight years in prison.
Passenger Claims Ignorance of Polish Law
The woman stated she was carrying the items at the request of an acquaintance, claiming they are not restricted in her home country and she was unaware of Polish regulations. She has been charged with the illegal possession of firearm parts, an offense punishable by six months to eight years imprisonment. Police are continuing the investigation.
Strict Polish Firearms Regulations
Poland has strict regulations regarding the trade, possession, and transport of firearms and their components, including seemingly “harmless” parts like barrels, bolts, and magazines. These components are legally considered key firearm components.
Legal Requirements for Transporting Firearms
The National Tax Administration reminds that the transport and import of firearms and ammunition require either a certificate issued by a Polish consulate or a European Firearms Card (for EU citizens), issued by an EU member state. Individuals crossing the external EU border must declare the transport of firearms and ammunition in writing to the customs authorities.
Those without a firearms permit are required to immediately deposit the imported firearms and ammunition with the appropriate customs authority and, within 14 days of bringing the firearm into Poland, apply to the Police for a firearms permit.
