Poland detains nine over laundering of 337 million zloty

Polish police carried out a large-scale operation against a criminal group suspected of laundering over 337 million zloty. As a result of the action, nine individuals were detained: eight of them hold Ukrainian citizenship, while one holds Belarusian citizenship.

Role of the ringleader and concealment methods

The Central Bureau for Combating Cybercrime (CBZC) reported that the group was led by a 34-year-old Ukrainian citizen. He coordinated the actions of his accomplices, organising the receipt of cash and its transport across Poland and abroad.

Law enforcement officials believe that part of the funds originated from fraudulent investment platforms and was linked to operations in the cryptocurrency market. To mask the true origin of the money, group members allegedly used currency exchange offices and concluded fictitious deals involving gold.

Details of the detention and asset seizure

The operation was conducted in Łódź, Warsaw, and the Lesser Poland Voivodeship. It involved officers from the CBZC, the Border Guard, and the Polish Internal Security Agency (ABW).

During searches of apartments, offices, and exchange points, police seized cash and gold worth over 1 million zloty. Mobile phones, computers, and other electronic data storage devices were also confiscated. It is worth noting that the seized amount represents only a fraction of the total volume of suspicious transactions, which stands at 337 million zloty.

Court rulings and potential penalties

The court selected preventive measures for seven suspects. Six individuals were remanded in custody for three months, while one was held for two months. Two others were released against a financial surety, with police supervision and a ban on leaving the country imposed on them.

According to the indictment, participants in the scheme face up to 15 years of imprisonment. The investigation continues under the procedural supervision of the Regional Prosecutor's Office in Łódź.