Polish nationals have been arrested and charged with aiding in the arson of a Czech defense industry facility linked to Israeli drone production in Pardubice.
Czech Factory Arson Linked to Extremist Group
The Polish Internal Security Agency (ABW) reported the incident occurred on March 20, 2026, in Pardubice, Czech Republic. The targeted facility belonged to LPP HOLDING, a company collaborating with Israel’s Elbit Systems on drone production.
The ABW stated the fire caused significant damage to industrial infrastructure and substantial property loss. An extremist organization, “The Earthquake Faction,” claimed responsibility, citing ideological motives and a goal of disrupting cooperation with the Israeli arms industry.
Two Polish Nationals Detained
Jacek Dobrzyński, spokesperson for the Minister Coordinating Special Services, announced the arrest of 23-year-old Aleksandra Ż. and 22-year-old Filip B., both Polish citizens, on March 24th and 26th. The ABW gathered materials leading to an investigation launched by the National Prosecutor’s Office – Warsaw Division.
Investigation Classifies Act as Terrorism
The National Prosecutor’s Office has classified the act as terrorism, stating it aimed to intimidate and coerce the Czech government into altering its activities. Individuals convicted of such an offense face up to 15 years in prison.
Suspects Deny Charges, Remain in Custody
The Prosecutor’s Office reported that the detainees denied the accusations and provided statements. A Warsaw court ordered both suspects held in temporary arrest for three months, pending further investigation. The investigation will be conducted in cooperation with Czech prosecutors, with the ABW leading the inquiry.
Czech Premier Calls for Increased Security
Following the fire and a meeting of the Czech Security Council, Prime Minister Andrej Babiš urged defense companies to enhance their security measures at their own expense. He suggested linking special production licenses to mandatory security protocols.
Czech Interior Minister Lubomir Metnar indicated a possible connection between the fire and terrorism.
Damage Estimated in Hundreds of Millions of Koruna
Czech police reported the arrest of three suspects – a Czech citizen, a U.S. citizen, and a foreign national from Slovakia – on March 24th, charging them with terrorist attack and participation in a terrorist group. Earlier reports indicated a search for seven individuals suspected of involvement in the arson at LPP Holding in Pardubice.
The fire destroyed a warehouse and administrative building, with the company estimating damages in the hundreds of millions of Czech koruna. The Pardubice facility was involved in developing communication systems for railways and optoelectronic devices.
