Two Ukrainian men were detained after attempting a burglary at a listed heritage building in Warsaw on December 20, 2025, leading police to request an exit order.
Incident Description
At approximately 11:40 on Saturday, December 20, 2025, a motorised patrol of the Warsaw City Guard noticed two Ukrainian men in the courtyard of 354 Grochowska Street. They were peeling away plaster from a heavily lifted window grille.
Attempted Access and Arrest
The Guard officers intervened on foot, and the men tried to retreat, but were taken into custody. They claimed to have entered the property to “take care of physiological needs.” One said he took a light‑brown bag found by the window.
Items Seized
During a preventive search a backpack was found containing two metal‑cutting chainsaws, two brass door handles with platforms, pliers, screwdrivers, and other tools.
Heritage Status
The targeted building, formerly the “Dzwon” clay factory, is listed as a heritage monument and owned by the Warsaw city estate, under the Praga‑Południe district authority. Police were called in accordingly.
Police Response
Around 12:15 two police patrols arrived. The Guards transferred the detained men, aged 50 and 38, to the Grenadiers Street command for further action, while a second patrol secured the area until technicians arrived.
Subsequent Detention and Exit Order
On Monday, December 22, after completing necessary procedural steps, the men were taken to the Warsaw Border Guard facility requesting a decision under Article 302(1)(9) of the Aliens Act. By 14:00 on December 23, they had not yet been handed over, likely due to procedural reasons.