WARSAW, Poland (AP) — Polish officials announced on Sunday that the significant fire that ravaged a shopping center in Warsaw last year was caused by arson commissioned by the Russian intelligence agency. This revelation comes just before the first anniversary of the incident.
The blaze struck on May 12, 2024, at the Mary Wilska 44 Shopping center, which was home to 1,400 shops and service points. Many vendors within this center were of Vietnamese origin, and the incident has deeply affected the Vietnamese community in Warsaw.
Prime Minister Donald Tass stated on X: “We have confirmed that the extensive fire at Mary Wilska was orchestrated by Russian services.”
In a joint announcement, Justice Minister Adam Bodner and Home Minister Thomas Siemoimuyak reiterated that the fire had devastated 1,400 shops and service points. Officials have been investigating the case for a year, with assistance from police and internal security agencies.
Authorities indicated that the arson was a part of a broader campaign to disrupt and obstruct, overseen by Russia. Some individuals linked to the incident are currently detained, while others are still being pursued. Polish authorities are collaborating with Lithuania, as some suspects are believed to be involved in interconnected activities.
The investigation involved extensive site inspections over 121 days, employing 55 prosecutors and 100 police officers. More than 70 witnesses and over 500 victims were interviewed during this process.
Officials expressed their commitment to holding accountable those responsible for this calculated act of obstruction.
This announcement has emerged amid increasing unease across Europe regarding Russia’s attempts to destabilize the region through covert operations.
In the past, Russia has refuted allegations of coordinating acts of arson and sabotage across Europe.
