Stolen Vehicle Ring Dismantled: Deputy PM Among Victims in International Fraud Case

Authorities have dismantled a criminal group that trafficked stolen Peugeot vehicles from France and Belgium into Poland, with 19 individuals now facing formal indictments for a scam that ensnared Deputy Prime Minister Krzysztof Gawkowski.

The Mechanics of the Criminal Operation

Operating from November 2022 to April 2024, the criminal group primarily targeted Peugeot models 2008, 3008, and 5008, with some vehicles valued at up to 250,000 PLN. Documentation to facilitate the smuggling was sourced from the Czech Republic.

According to Commissioner Krzysztof Wrześniowski of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBŚP), the gang altered vehicle identification numbers and forged documentation. While many cars were sold as legal imports in Poland, others were dismantled for parts.

International Investigation and Recoveries

The CBŚP dismantled the group through a joint investigative team established with Czech police. Authorities successfully recovered 52 vehicles with a total value of 6.8 million PLN.

An indictment has been filed with the District Court in Radom against 19 individuals accused of stealing vehicles across France and Belgium.

The Victimization of Krzysztof Gawkowski

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Affairs Krzysztof Gawkowski fell victim to the fraud after purchasing a “twin” Peugeot 5008 that had been falsified in Poland. Despite vetting the car through a VIN check and an authorized service center, the vehicle was eventually seized by law enforcement.

Gawkowski publicly questioned how authorized services failed to detect the existence of duplicate VINs. Following a ruling by the District Court in Warsaw allowing him to withdraw from the purchase contract, the minister received 147,000 PLN from a bailiff, covering the purchase price, interest, and legal costs.