Warsaw seals Targowa underpass after raid

23 April 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

City crews began sealing the Targowa underpass after a police and KAS raid uncovered illegal activity.

Workers began sealing the Targowa underpass in Praga-Północ on Wednesday morning after a police and KAS operation. Consequently, the city moved quickly to block the tunnel and prevent further illegal activity.

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Targowa underpass: What happened

The work started on April 22 at about 10:00. Moreover, a construction crew worked with municipal guards at the site. In addition, the crossing had already received temporary fencing. Therefore, the Zarząd Dróg Miejskich (ZDM, the city roads authority) said workers will replace barriers with bricks. However, the authority added plans to fully fill the structure later.

Why authorities acted

Police and the Krajowa Administracja Skarbowa (KAS) entered the tunnel on Tuesday morning. Consequently, officers secured the area and inspected kiosks and rooms there. Moreover, officials said they found an illegal club with drugs and gambling machines. In addition, local councillor Krzysztof Michalski reported seven people detained. Furthermore, authorities seized 32 gambling machines, according to public statements. Therefore, the city said closing the tunnel followed that enforcement action. Also, KAS enforces tax and customs laws and targets illegal commercial activity.

Impact on transport and the neighbourhood

The underpass had already lost commuter importance since planners marked a surface crossing. Moreover, pedestrians largely avoided the tunnel after the road design changed. Consequently, filling the tunnel will change walking routes near Okrzei and Ząbkowska streets. In addition, nearby businesses and residents should expect construction noise and barriers for some time. However, the city argues the closure improves public safety and reduces crime risk.

Practical effects and next steps

City crews said they intended to finish walling the entrances the same day. Therefore, the tunnel will no longer serve as a shortcut. In addition, the municipality can later fully backfill the space. Moreover, the move matches a 2022 concept to remove subterranean crossings along this stretch. Consequently, you should plan slightly longer walking times around the junction.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you live or work nearby, use the new surface crossing and follow posted signs. Moreover, report suspicious activity to the police (call 112) or to the municipal guards (straż miejska). KAS means National Revenue Administration and tackles illicit trade. For administrative context, note PESEL is a national ID number, ZUS is the social insurance agency, NFZ runs public health insurance, and mandat simply means a fine.

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