Police Seek Public Help After Store Thefts in Sosnowiec

8 July 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Police appeal for witnesses after drugstore thefts in Sosnowiec; authorities released a photo and a tip line.

Police in Sosnowiec have appealed for public help after a series of drugstore thefts in Sosnowiec between 21 and 23 March 2026. Officers published a photograph of a man who may have information and asked residents to come forward.

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What happened and where

The incidents occurred at two drugstores on Sienkiewicza Street and Aleja Mireckiego. Police from Komisariat Policji I lead the investigation. Consequently, they focused on identifying the individual seen on released images. Moreover, the authorities published a contact number to speed up reporting.

Why the police released a photo

Officers released the photograph to catch a possible suspect quickly. Therefore, they hope public recognition will speed identification. In addition, police aim to secure witness statements and CCTV footage. However, investigators say they do not yet have a confirmed identity. Consequently, they urged anyone with relevant knowledge to contact them.

How residents can help

If you recognise the man, call Komisariat Policji I in Sosnowiec at 47 852 01 00. Alternatively, you may report details to the nearest police station. Moreover, witnesses who filmed events or store layouts should keep footage safe. Therefore, police can obtain it later as evidence. However, do not confront the person yourself.

Legal and local context

In Poland, shoplifting counts as theft and can lead to criminal charges. Often, police issue fines called mandat for minor offences. However, repeated or higher-value thefts may become criminal cases. In addition, witnesses and victims normally provide ID details. For foreigners, that may include a passport and a PESEL number (the national ID number). Moreover, police sometimes record personal data for investigations and court proceedings.

Why this matters for expats

Foreign residents should note that Polish police rely on public tips. Consequently, your sighting could matter a lot. Moreover, stores often preserve CCTV for a limited time. Therefore, reporting quickly increases the chance of matches. In addition, if you witness theft, call 112 for emergencies. However, the municipal guard (Straż Miejska) handles local order issues and not all crimes. Therefore, call the police for thefts and urgent danger.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: In Poland, you can report crimes in English at larger stations, but responses vary. If police ask for details, provide your name and ID. Also, remember PESEL is a national ID number used in many official processes. If you do not have PESEL, give passport details and contact information. Finally, keep emergency numbers handy: 112 for police, ambulance, and fire. If unsure, ask the nearest police station for help.

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