Police in Białobrzegi, Poland, discovered a large collection of World War II-era military artifacts and detained a 46-year-old man on April 1st.
WWII Arsenal Discovered
Police in Białobrzegi uncovered a significant quantity of World War II military items within the Kozienice county. The 46-year-old owner of the illegal arsenal faces up to eight years imprisonment.
The discovered items included 180 pieces of ammunition, a magazine with ammunition, hand and canister grenades, grenade fuses, artillery, mortar, and anti-tank shells, as well as a Mauser rifle. All items dated back to World War II.
Arrest and Charges
The 46-year-old owner of the property was arrested as he lacked the required permit to store such items. He was held in police custody and charged with possession of weapons without a permit and the production or trade of dangerous substances.
He faces up to eight years in prison if convicted. The seized military artifacts have been secured for disposal.
Dangers of Unexploded Ordnance
Authorities emphasize that unexploded ordnance from World War II remains a real danger. Despite the passage of time, some explosive materials may still be active and pose a threat.
Individuals are urged to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines if they encounter suspected unexploded ordnance: maintain a safe distance, do not manipulate the object, contact the police, and warn others in the area.
Legal Consequences for Artifacts
Searching for hidden or abandoned artifacts without a permit is punishable by a fine or up to two years imprisonment. Appropriation of found items or damage to archaeological sites during unprofessional excavation can lead to a combined sentence of up to eight years.
If the offense involves items of particular cultural significance, the penalty can be increased to ten years imprisonment.