Poland blames Russian secret service for arson attack on department store

Poland blames Russian secret service for arson attack on department store

WARSAW, Poland – A massive fire, which destroyed a large shopping center in Warsaw last year, was planted at the behest of Russian intelligence services, according to Polish authorities. This was announced on Sunday, the eve of the one-year anniversary of the fire.

Details about the devastating fire

The fire broke out on May 12, 2024 in the Marywilska 44 shopping center, which housed around 1,400 shops and service points. Many of the traders were from Vietnam, and the incident hit Warsaw's Vietnamese community particularly hard.

Investigations and arrests

"We now know for sure that the massive fire in Marywilska was the result of an arson commissioned by Russian services," said Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Platform X. "The actions were coordinated by a person living in Russia. Some of the perpetrators are already in custody, others have been identified and are being sought. We will catch them all!"

Coordinated acts of sabotage

In a joint statement, Justice Minister Adam Bodnar and Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak emphasized that the fire on May 12, 2024 destroyed 1,400 shops and services. Authorities have been investigating the incident for a year, supported by police and the Internal Security Agency.

Collaboration with international partners

Authorities reported that the arson was part of a coordinated sabotage campaign directed from Russia. Some of the perpetrators are in custody, while others have been identified and are still being sought. Polish authorities are also working with Lithuania, where some suspects have allegedly carried out similar activities.

Extensive investigations

The investigation involved 121 days of on-site operations and the work of 55 prosecutors and 100 police officers. More than 70 witnesses and over 500 victims were interviewed.

determination of the authorities

“We are determined to hold those responsible for these shameful acts of sabotage to account,” the ministers continued.

Rising concerns in Europe

The announcement comes amid growing concerns in Europe about Russian attempts to destabilize the region through covert operations. Russia has in the past denied allegations that it orchestrated acts of arson and sabotage in Europe.