Polish authorities arrested three men on March 10, 2026, linked to a criminal group smuggling 1.5 tons of narcotics into Poland from Western Europe.
Investigation Launched into Organized Crime Group
The Szczecin Branch of the Department for Organized Crime and Corruption of the National Prosecutor’s Office is overseeing an investigation conducted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBŚP) into an international organized crime group involved in drug trafficking.
Investigators indicate the group’s activities may have involved up to 1.5 tons of illegal substances introduced into the Polish market.
Arrests Made, Suspects Linked to Football Fans
On March 10, 2026, officers from the Central Bureau of Investigation and the Warmia-Masuria Border Guard Branch detained three men aged 32 to 43. Prosecutor Katarzyna Calów-Jaszewska stated the suspects were “associated with the environment of pseudo-fans of one of Krakow’s sports clubs.”
Drug Trafficking Route Identified
The investigation revealed the detainees were responsible for organizing the smuggling of narcotics from Western European countries, including the Netherlands, Belgium, and Spain.
Scale of Operation Revealed
Prosecutors estimate that approximately 1.5 tons of illegal substances were brought into the country as part of the group’s activities, subsequently being distributed within Poland.
Significant Drug Seizures
Searches of the detainees’ homes, vehicles, and properties resulted in the seizure of substantial quantities of drugs, including 27 kilograms of cocaine, 27 kilograms of marijuana, 12 kilograms of mephedrone, and 666 ecstasy tablets. The black market value of the seized substances is estimated at over 12.5 million złoty.
Additional Evidence Recovered
During the operation, other items potentially relevant to the investigation were also secured, including firearms, magazines, ammunition, mobile phones, and data storage devices. Funds exceeding 27,000 złoty, branded watches, and gold jewelry were also seized.
Charges Filed and Detention Orders Issued
The detainees have been charged with participation in an organized criminal group involved in drug trafficking, under Article 258 § 1 of the Penal Code and Article 55 of the Act on Counteracting Drug Addiction.
A temporary arrest warrant was issued for one suspect, while the other two were placed under property bail, police supervision, and a travel ban.
Potential Penalties
The suspects face up to 20 years imprisonment for their involvement in the organized criminal group and the smuggling of significant quantities of drugs. The prosecutor’s office emphasizes that the investigation is ongoing.
