Poland Blocks Criminal Network Smuggling Mercedes, BMWs Into Russia and Belarus Amid War Sanctions

Poland’s Central Police Bureau of Investigation (CBŚP) has shut down a major criminal operation that smuggled 600 luxury cars to Russia and Belarus, bypassing EU sanctions, the Bureau reported on September 23.

The smuggling ring operated across multiple European countries, including Poland, Germany, and Lithuania, using false transactions to bypass regulations.

The network, which spanned from 2021 to 2025, used so-called “front companies” to conceal the criminal activities. Luxury vehicles from brands like BMW, Mercedes, and Porsche were bought and resold within the EU before being rerouted to Russia and Belarus, the Bureau stated.

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Investigators discovered that the group fraudulently reclaimed over $11 million in VAT.

In mid-September, CBŚP arrested 20 individuals connected to the operation. The suspects face serious charges, including participation in a criminal organization, money laundering, and violating sanctions.

Some members of the group are accused of orchestrating the entire scheme, accroding to CBŚP.

During the investigation, authorities seized assets, including luxury watches, jewelry, and over $2.7 million from bank accounts. Those involved in the criminal activities could face sentences ranging from 5 years in prison to heavy fines.

Previously, it was reported that Jerzy Tys, a Polish citizen who headed an organization dedicated to restoring Soviet monuments in Poland, has been killed while serving with Russian forces in the war against Ukraine.

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