Thieves Used Stolen Plates to Fuel Up and Flee

14 June 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Lodz police hunt suspects who used stolen license plates to fill tanks and flee. Read images and advice on what to do if it happens.

Lodz police published new photos after a string of incidents where drivers used stolen license plates to fill up and flee. Consequently, officers ask witnesses to check the images and come forward.

Table of Contents

Police release images of stolen license plates case

Officers in Lodz say criminals steal car plates, drive to petrol stations, and refill cars before driving off. Moreover, the groups act quickly and often at night. Therefore, petrol station staff and CCTV can prove crucial evidence. However, police note that each year the city records several to a dozen similar cases. In addition, investigators warn that such schemes can escalate into other crimes.

What the law says and what the police want

The public prosecutor can charge anyone who uses another person’s plates with a prison sentence. In fact, Polish law allows up to five years in prison for that offense. Moreover, stealing small amounts of fuel usually attracts a fine rather than jail. For instance, theft of fuel valued under 800 złoty commonly results in a mandat (fine). Consequently, police balance criminal probes with administrative penalties.

How the investigation works

Detectives collect station CCTV, credit card receipts, and witness testimony. In addition, they compare images to vehicle databases. Furthermore, police publish photos to prompt recognition. Therefore, anyone who recognises a suspect should call the Lodz force. However, officers ask people not to approach suspects directly. Instead, they recommend contacting the emergency number or the local station.

Practical risks for drivers

Car owners face indirect consequences when criminals clone plates. For example, the owner may receive traffic fines, points, or enforcement notices. Moreover, insurers may ask for a police report before paying claims. Therefore, rapid reporting limits damage. In addition, recurring misuse of plates can lead to long investigations.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If your plates disappear, immediately report the theft to the police and get a written report number. Then inform your insurer and the local vehicle registration office (Wydzial Komunikacji) to order replacement plates. In Poland, many authorities ask for an ID number (PESEL) if you have one, or your passport if you are a foreigner. Also, keep proof of car ownership and OC insurance. Note that a “mandat” means a fine, ZUS refers to the social security office, and NFZ is the public health insurer. Therefore, act fast to avoid receiving fines or points that someone else could cause.

Police urge people who recognise anyone in the released photos to call and help the investigation. Furthermore, staff at fuel stations should check CCTV footage and share timestamps. Consequently, the police hope to catch the suspects soon. However, they say public vigilance remains vital.

Investigators emphasise community cooperation and careful documentation. Moreover, they remind drivers to secure plates with tamper-proof screws. Therefore, small precautions can discourage opportunistic thieves. In addition, installing a dashcam or parking camera can provide clear proof if your plates are cloned or stolen.

Finally, Lodz police continue their probe and promise updates if they identify suspects. Consequently, residents and visitors should watch the published images and report tips.

Source: Read original article

📚 Looking for more help settling in Poland? Browse our complete Expat Guides.