Polish authorities dismantled a criminal network selling fake university documents to illegal migrants. Over 100 foreign nationals were found working without permits and face deportation. Six suspects have been arrested, with investigations continuing into the scheme.
Poland’s Border Guard and police have dismantled an organized criminal network accused of selling fraudulent university enrollment certificates to foreigners seeking to remain and work illegally in the country.
The operation was carried out on March 11, when officers conducted coordinated inspections of nearly 200 foreign nationals at 15 workplaces and 16 accommodation sites across northern Poland. Authorities said the action formed part of broader efforts to combat illegal migration and employment.
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Investigators found that six Polish citizens were allegedly producing forged documents claiming that foreign nationals had begun studies at universities in Warsaw and Gdańsk. These documents were used to falsely legalize the stay of individuals in the country.
According to authorities, the scheme allowed foreign workers to remain in Poland while enabling employers to bypass regulations governing the hiring of non-European Union nationals. Officials said this undermined existing labor and immigration laws.
During the operation, officers identified 105 individuals working without the required permits. Administrative proceedings have been initiated, requiring those affected to return to their countries of origin.
Those inspected included citizens from Colombia, Venezuela, Guatemala, Peru, Zimbabwe, Cuba, Moldova, and Ukraine. Authorities did not provide further details about individual cases but confirmed that all were subject to verification checks.
The six suspects linked to the scheme have been detained and charged with participation in an organized criminal group, document forgery, and facilitating illegal residence in Poland. These offenses carry potential prison sentences of up to eight years.
Officials stated that the investigation remains ongoing and further arrests have not been ruled out. Authorities said the operation reflects continued enforcement efforts against immigration fraud and illegal employment practices in Poland.
Poland has in recent years increased measures to address irregular migration, including tighter border controls and stricter enforcement policies targeting human smuggling and illegal work.
