Man in Poland Detained After Cutting Cross from Ukrainian Church — Bold Vandalism and Theft Attempt of a Historic Symbol
In Legnica, western Poland, law enforcement authorities swiftly identified and apprehended a suspect involved in removing and stealing the main symbol of a Ukrainian church — the cross mounted on its dome.
The incident occurred on September 13 and drew significant attention from local and international media outlets.
According to police, a 29-year-old man, who confessed to his actions, believed that the cross he removed was made of silver, which may have prompted his attempt.
However, he acted alone, having researched and prepared for the crime over an extended period.
The investigation also revealed that he had prior criminal involvement related to this church.
Several years ago, he attempted to steal the church’s copper roof, but was thwarted by an alarm system.
Subsequently, while preparing for the current theft, he stole a ladder worth over 1,600 zlotys, which he took from a van.
Additional charges may be added as authorities found other items at the scene that could be stolen property.
The suspect, who has a history of similar offenses, was already convicted multiple times.
The Ukrainian embassy in Poland condemned the attack and called on law enforcement to enhance oversight to prevent such provocations in the future, considering the symbolic importance of the church for the Ukrainian community.
Previously, there were reports of damage to the church’s roof and the removal of the cross, indicating a troubling pattern of vandalism and theft targeting Ukrainian religious sites in Poland.