Councillor accused in village roadside clash

25 July 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

A local councillor assault in Dzwola drew video evidence and a police decision to drop the case. The dispute highlights rural land and legal issues.

A village councillor in Dzwola faces allegations after a May roadside confrontation. The local councillor assault captured on mobile phones sparked a heated dispute and a police decision to drop the case.

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Allegations: local councillor assault

Three short phone videos show a physical scuffle on 14 May. Consequently, two women say they suffered attacks while recording road works. Moreover, the woman named Justyna reported pain in her little finger. Therefore, she visited the emergency department (SOR) at Janów Lubelski. The doctors diagnosed a small finger injury. In addition, they placed an aluminium splint and issued sick leave until 22 May.

However, police in Janów Lubelski later closed the investigation. The authorities argued that the videos do not clearly show who caused the injury. Consequently, investigators wrote that the injured party appears as an active participant. Moreover, the police suggested the woman might have endangered herself by standing close to heavy machinery. Therefore, they offered her the option to pursue a private criminal action.

Why the incident matters locally

The clash stems from a deeper land dispute. In short, Justyna claims the gmina carried out road works on part of her land. In addition, she points to decisions from the Provincial Building Inspectorate. Moreover, she cites rulings that may support her claim. However, the municipal office says the works took place on public land. The local mayor (wójt) visited the scene and tried to calm people. Consequently, villagers now debate who is right.

For expats, this case highlights how local power works in Poland. The wójt runs the rural municipality. Moreover, land evidence often lives in the land and mortgage register (księga wieczysta). In addition, online maps such as Geoportal serve as indicative guides. However, they do not replace legal deeds. Therefore, disputes commonly proceed through administrative courts or civil suits.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you witness violence in Poland call emergency number 112. For non-urgent police contact call 997 or visit the local Komenda Powiatowa. Keep all medical records from SOR because public health care uses NFZ (National Health Fund). Also keep photos, videos and witness names for evidence. In Poland you can file a private bill of indictment (private criminal action) if police close a probe. Moreover, check land records in the land and mortgage register (księga wieczysta) and seek a legal opinion. Finally, note useful IDs like PESEL (national ID number) for procedures, and remember social security is ZUS.

The two sides trade strong accusations. Justyna says officials illegally changed boundaries and dumped stones on her fields. Conversely, the councillor and neighbours call her confrontational. Moreover, local residents express mixed views. Some want the gravel road fixed. Others support Justyna’s insistence on legal clarity. Therefore, the village remains divided.

Consequently, observers should watch for further legal steps. The injured woman filed a complaint and then a formal appeal against the police decision. In addition, she may seek civil damages. Meanwhile, the municipal office says it will not comment on ongoing matters.

For anyone new to Poland, note that public services and legal routes differ from many countries. For instance, you must understand local administrative titles and the roles of police and prosecutors. Moreover, document everything and seek a translator or lawyer when needed.

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