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Colombian National Charged With Terrorism for Russian-Ordered Arson Attacks in Poland
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A 27-year-old Colombian citizen has been accused of setting fire to construction warehouses in two Polish cities on orders from Russian intelligence, Polish officials announced.
“This was commissioned, coordinated, and funded by an individual linked to Russian special services,” said Poland’s Internal Security Agency (ABW), as cited by RMF24 on July 29. “The suspect received detailed instructions on the target and method of attack—including how to make a Molotov cocktail and which vehicle to use.”
According to Jacek Dobrzyński, spokesperson for the minister coordinating the country’s security services, the man acted on behalf of Russian intelligence and was behind arson attacks in Warsaw and Radom in May 2024. The first fire occurred in the capital on May 23, followed by another in Radom a week later.
Authorities said the suspect has been charged with terrorism and faces a possible life sentence. He has reportedly “partially admitted guilt and provided explanations, which are currently being verified.”
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ABW investigators found that Russian intelligence operatives have been using the Telegram messenger app to systematically recruit people of Latin American origin with military experience. Recruits were tasked with carrying out surveillance, arson, and documenting the damage.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk addressed the case ahead of a cabinet meeting on July 29, warning that authorities would act decisively to counter attempts at destabilization.
“I have asked the relevant ministers… to take even more intensive and energetic steps to both prevent risks and detain all those who, for Russian money, attack the Polish state,” Tusk stated.
He confirmed that 32 individuals suspected of cooperating with Russian intelligence have been detained so far, including Russians, Belarusians, Ukrainians, a Colombian, and a Polish citizen.
Russian handlers reportedly instructed these individuals to commit sabotage and assaults. One has already been convicted, while the rest await trial.
“The work of the prosecutor’s office and Polish services has once again confirmed that these sabotage operations were also carried out under direct orders from Russian services,” Tusk added.
Regarding those attempting to destabilize the country, particularly near Poland’s borders, the prime minister issued a blunt warning: “The Polish state will act ruthlessly.”
Earlier, it was reported that the UK announced new sanctions targeting Russian military intelligence officers involved in the bombing of the Mariupol Theatre and cyberattacks on Western entities.
