Russian-speaking gangs dominate organised crime in Poland

Poland recorded a sharp rise in the share of foreigners involved in organised crime last year, with Russian-speaking groups dominant.

According to data from the Central Bureau of Police Investigations, reported by the daily Rzeczpospolita, 265 foreign suspects were registered, a 44 per cent increase year on year. More than 80 per cent were from backgrounds linked to Russia.

Police dismantled a total of 157 criminal groups, most of them domestic, but the number of international and Russian-speaking gangs increased. Suspects from Belarus and Armenia saw the largest rises, while Ukrainians remained the largest group overall.

Experts say the nature of crime is changing. The newer groups are more likely to be involved in economic crime, smuggling, human trafficking and cybercrime, and less likely to engage in street violence.

Authorities have also identified the presence of senior criminal figures who direct gang activities and distribute profits. However, the low number of arrested leaders remains a concern, as many operate from abroad or remain in hiding.

Experts warn that without changes in strategy and stronger enforcement capacity, transnational criminal networks could continue to expand.

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