Rail Corruption Case at PESA: 7 Arrested

19 June 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

A rail corruption case at PESA Mińsk Mazowiecki led to seven arrests; probe covers over 1,150 contracts worth more than 28.5m zł.

Poland’s anti-corruption agency dismantled a rail corruption case linked to PESA Mińsk Mazowiecki. Consequently, seven people faced arrest. Moreover, the suspects include three company staff and four contractors.

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Details of the rail corruption case

Investigators from the Central Anti-Corruption Bureau (CBA) arrested the suspects on June 16, 2026. In addition, the Mazovian branch of the National Prosecutor’s Office supervises the probe. The officers executed searches at homes and business premises. They also collected documents and electronic devices. Furthermore, they carried out operations at PESA’s company site. The inquiry covers conduct from December 2019 to January 2024.

Scale, charges, and legal steps

The probe indicates bribery and leaking of confidential tender information. Consequently, managers took financial benefits to steer contracts. As a result, investigators estimate the case affects more than 1,150 public orders. Moreover, the combined value may exceed 28.5 million zł. Prosecutors charged the suspects under article 296a §§1 and 2 of the Penal Code. Therefore, the court applied bail, police supervision, and contact bans. Several suspects admitted guilt. However, the investigation remains active and will expand.

Who was involved and how it worked

Authorities say contractors provided services in repair and modernization of rolling stock. In addition, some contractors won bids after receiving inside information. Investigators detained a former soldier among the contractors. Moreover, the CBA seized contracts and procurement files. The bureau also urged insiders to use the non-prosecution clause. Therefore, persons who paid bribes can avoid penalties if they fully disclose crimes first. Consequently, the agency invited witnesses to contact its Warsaw office.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you work or contract in Poland, understand local systems. For example, ZUS means social insurance (ZUS), and NFZ covers public health insurance (NFZ). Also, PESEL identifies residents (PESEL number). Keep clear invoices and comply with public procurement rules. Moreover, avoid unofficial payments; a “mandat” means a minor fine. Finally, report knowledge of bribery to authorities to benefit from a non-prosecution clause.

For expats, the case shows risk in public procurement. Therefore, companies may tighten compliance and audits. Consequently, affected suppliers might face contract reviews and delays. Moreover, public transport operators could slow modernization plans. However, national rail safety likely remains a priority. In addition, travellers should monitor service notices if repairs slow work.

Local context matters because PESA operates in Mińsk Mazowiecki near Warsaw. Therefore, regional procurement often links to Warsaw-based administrations. Moreover, Poland enforces stricter anti-corruption measures since EU fund monitoring increased. As a result, foreign contractors should confirm transparent tender processes. Also, keep detailed records to protect your business legally.

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