Birches cut down and taken for church decoration

5 June 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

A Lublin-area owner found birch trees stolen from his plot; police investigate as the trees were reportedly for Corpus Christi altar.

This week the owner of a property in Głusk discovered birch trees stolen from his plot. Consequently, the man reported the incident to police and an inquiry began.

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Birch trees stolen from private plot

The owner returned home and noticed several young birches missing. Moreover, the trees had stood for about ten years. They formed a green barrier between the house and a busy road. However, someone cut down whole trees overnight and removed them from the plot.

What the police say

Police first registered the report at the Świdnik county station. In addition, officers later transferred the case to a Lublin precinct for further work. Police say they value the damage at roughly 600 zł. Therefore, investigators will determine what happened to the cut trees and who took them. Moreover, they will assess whether the case meets criteria for criminal charges or a simpler sanction like a mandat (a fine issued by police).

Why the trees may have been taken

Local officers told journalists that the suspect may have brought the birches to a church in Lublin. In addition, the branches would have served as altar decoration for the Corpus Christi feast. This custom uses birch branches to symbolize spring, new life, and God’s presence in nature. Consequently, parishioners often break small branches and take them home after the service.

Local and legal context

In Poland theft remains a prosecutable offence regardless of motive. However, authorities weigh the value and intent when deciding next steps. For foreigners, note that police usually record ID details such as PESEL (national identification number) if available. Moreover, you may need police reports for home insurance claims or for contacts with ZUS (state social insurance) or NFZ (National Health Fund) in other matters. Therefore, keep copies of any documents you file.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you live in Poland you should respect local religious traditions but not at the cost of someone else’s property. Moreover, churches usually obtain decorative branches through parish channels. Therefore, ask your local priest or parish council first. In addition, if someone steals your plants report it to the police quickly and keep photos and plant records. Also remember to have ID handy; police may ask for a PESEL (national ID number) or passport, and you might later need documents for insurance or administrative steps such as ZUS (social insurance) claims or NFZ (health fund) correspondence.

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