On the night of November 1, a police helicopter hovering just 20 meters above Warsaw’s cemeteries sparked alarm among residents, prompting a city‑wide security operation.
Police helicopter over Warsaw
At 14:00 on the All Souls’ Day holiday, helicopter SN‑82XP hovered over the Military Cemetery on Powązki, the Brodnowski and Wolska cemeteries, and the necropoleis in Włochy and Ursus. The low‑altitude flight produced a loud noise that drew the attention of many onlookers.
Observation around the cemeteries
Metropolitan police describe the sorties as preventive measures under the “Znicz” operation. “From above we can see traffic conditions and dispatch patrols where intervention is needed,” officials said. The police encourage visitors to use public transport and follow law‑enforcement instructions. Modified traffic arrangements exist around the cemeteries to keep traffic away from memorials.
Police operation “Znicz”
The operation will remain in force until Monday, November 3, with increased patrols nationwide and around cemeteries. Officers will enforce speed limits, test drivers for drunkenness, and react to any offenses that threaten lives or health. In the week of October 31, there were 92 road accidents with four fatalities and 105 injuries, and the police seized 228 drivers under the influence.