Over 150 trainees at the Border Guard Training Centre in Kętrzyn suffered mass food poisoning on April 8, with no clear source identified as investigations continue.
Incident details
A mass poisoning occurred on 8 April at the Border Guard Training Centre in Kętrzyn.
Initial analyses of samples from symptomatic individuals found Salmonella bacteria. More than 150 participants were affected, and 16 officers were hospitalized in Giżycko.
Investigators suspect the culprit was carbonara, a dish containing eggs and other ingredients, served to trainees.
Investigation underway
The Olsztyn District Prosecutor’s Office is handling the case. Proceedings are in the in‑rem phase, meaning no charges have yet been filed.
Witnesses who used the cafeteria on 8 April—over 300 people from all Border Guard units across Poland—are being interviewed. A forensic medical examiner will be appointed after gathering complete medical records.
Source of infection remains unknown
Medical documentation of those who sought care is being compiled. Tests on food samples and documentation of meal preparation have not yet identified the source of contamination.
Authorities refrain from comment
The Warmia‑Masuria Branch of the Border Guard declined to comment, first referring inquiries to the prosecutor’s office and then to the health authority.
The Regional Sanitary and Epidemiological Station in Olsztyn stated that, due to the ongoing investigation and applicable regulations, it cannot provide additional information at this time.
