Warsaw police detained three former gang leaders during a staged money transfer at the Presidential Hotel, charging them with an attempted extortion of 100,000 PLN. The suspects were placed in provisional detention and face up to ten years in prison.
Arrest Details
On Monday, August 18, the Warsaw District Prosecutor’s Office announced the arrest of former Pruszków gang leader Andrzej Z. (callsign “Słowik”) together with Michał D. (“Pieprz”) and Krzysztof Cz. (“Cycek”). The arrests occurred at the Presidential Hotel on Jerozolimskich Avenue during a so‑called “controlled handover” of money. The suspects were alleged to have collected 100 000 PLN from the victim.
Charges and Court Proceedings
All three suspects are accused of attempting a robbery‑extortion of 100 000 PLN. During interrogations at the prosecutor’s office and at a detention hearing before the Mokotów District Court, they denied the allegations and invoked their right to refuse to provide explanations. The court approved the prosecutor’s request and imposed provisional detention for three months.
Police Operation
The arrests were carried out by the Warsaw Central Police’s Criminal and Murder Fighting Unit, with support from the Central Anti‑Terrorist Unit “BOA”. Police officers intercepted the suspects while they were receiving the money on behalf of the victim in a hotel restaurant. A previous operation had identified the meeting location in advance.
Suspects’ Background
The suspects are aged between 56 and 65 and have a long criminal history. They were key figures in former Warsaw‑suburb gang groups. Prior to the arrest, “Słowik” had been released from prison five months earlier and had already returned to criminal activities.
Legal Framework and Penalties
The case falls under Article 13 § 1 of the Polish Criminal Code and Article 282 § 1 concerning attempted robbery‑extortion. The suspects face up to ten years of imprisonment. The prosecutor’s office is overseeing the pre‑trial proceedings.
Source: MiejskiReporter,
