Polish security agency ABW has expanded charges in a Russian‑backed spy network, arresting members and issuing a fugitive notice against the group’s founder.
ABW Launches Investigation into Spy Network
Under supervision of the Lublin Regional Public Prosecutor’s Office, ABW began a March 2023 investigation into a criminal group of at least 30 people organised by Russian intelligence. The group carried out espionage, sabotage‑dissident operations, and propaganda aimed at destabilising Poland.
Arrests Shut Down Planned Sabotage of Supply Trains
ABW officers detained 16 members (12 Ukrainians, 3 Belarusians, 1 Russian) in 2023. Their actions prevented a plan to sabotage trains transporting arms and humanitarian aid to Ukraine across Polish territory.
Court Convicts 16 Members with Sentence Range of 13 Months to 6 Years
The Lublin District Court sentenced all 16 accused, imposing prison terms of 13 months to 6 years, fines, forfeiture of ill‑procured benefits, and compensation for legal costs. Deportation proceedings are underway for those completing or still serving their sentences.
Charges Extended to Eight More, Including Polish, Lithuanian, Belarusian, Ukrainian, and Russian Nationals
Prosecutors have now charged 8 further group members: one Polish, one Lithuanian, three Belarusians, one Ukrainian, and two Russians (including the founder). Indictments will be filed against two, while international searches target the rest.
Organizational Structure and Disinformation Campaigns
The hierarchical group, led by a Russian national linked to the FSB, carried out sabotage of critical Polish infrastructure and disseminated disinformation and propaganda to sway public opinion against Ukraine and fuel anti‑Polish sentiment.
Key Figure: 28‑Year‑Old Russian National Michail M.
Michail M., a mathematician from Moscow‑region, coordinated the group’s operations, managed crypto‑wallet payments, and directed espionage tasks via Telegram. He was temporarily arrested for three months and is now the subject of an international fugitive notice.