Poland’s Ministry of Interior and Administration confirmed on December 19 that the 12‑year‑old arrested in Jelenia Góra is not a Ukrainian citizen, refuting false claims linking her to the murder of an 11‑year‑old schoolgirl.
Interior Ministry Denies Claims of Ukrainian Nationality
On December 19, spokesperson Karolina Gałecka dismissed rumours that the 12‑year‑old student arrested in Jelenia Góra was a Ukrainian national involved in the killing of an 11‑year‑old girl. She stated the girl is not a Ukrainian citizen and that the arrest followed the murder of the younger student. Gałecka warned that spreading such falsehoods fuels hatred between Poland and Ukraine. Tomasz Siemoniak, coordinating minister for special services, added “Stop disinformation!”
Police Confirm Polish Citizenship
A police spokesperson, Beata Sosulska‑Baran, confirmed via the city police command that the 12‑year‑old is a Polish citizen. The statement came after repeated denials by the news portal Demagog of similar rumours. Sosulska‑Baran noted that the portal had previously debunked false claims that attacks in Poland were carried out by foreigners, citing the Warsaw University incident as an example.
Background: 11‑Year‑Old Girl’s Murder
The 11‑year‑old schoolgirl was found dead with stab wounds on Monday, December 15, near her school in Jelenia Góra. Investigators say the 12‑year‑old from the same primary school may be linked to the murder, as her arrest occurred shortly after the crime.
Funeral and Public Response
The city has scheduled the girl’s burial for Saturday, December 20. Mayor Jerzy Łużniak announced a day of mourning at the site and urged organizers of entertainment, cultural and sports events to cancel or postpone them. He also appealed for respect for the family’s privacy and requested that no media attend the funeral.