The Warsaw District Prosecutor’s Office has declined to launch an investigation into an auction featuring Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk, which had been reported by former minister Mariusz Błaszczak.
The WOŚP Auction Controversy
In January, Deputy Defense Minister and Civic Coalition MP Cezary Tomczyk promoted an auction for the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity (WOŚP). The winning bidder was offered a shooting training session at the 15th Sieradz Communications Brigade using a Śnieżnik simulator.
The event, advertised by the local Nasze Radio, prompted an immediate reaction from Mariusz Błaszczak, head of the PiS parliamentary club. Błaszczak filed a formal report with the prosecutor’s office, alleging the misuse of state-owned military infrastructure, a potential abuse of power, and violations regarding the political neutrality of the armed forces.
Błaszczak’s Allegations and Tomczyk’s Rebuttal
Błaszczak argued that the military should not be used as a “reward” for money, expressing further concern that the unit was located in the deputy minister’s own constituency. He claimed the matter required a thorough investigation to ensure the integrity of the military.
Tomczyk rejected the criticism, accusing Błaszczak of being out of touch with reality. He defended the military’s participation in the charity event and urged a focus on supporting children rather than engaging in political conflict.
Prosecutor’s Decision and Current Status
The 8th Military Division of the District Prosecutor’s Office in Warsaw reviewed the case, consulting with the Warsaw Garrison Command and the Ministry of National Defense. On May 11, the office decided not to initiate an investigation, concluding that no crime had been committed and no public official had exceeded their authority.
According to the Ministry of National Defense, the auction concluded with a winning bid of 1,600 PLN. As of now, the shooting training has not yet taken place, and the parties are currently arranging a suitable date for the event.
