Chinese gang robbed residents of Żywiec. Tens of thousands of zlotys in losses

Between July and September 2026, a series of unusual transactions occurred in stores around Żywiec, where unknown perpetrators regularly purchased gift cards using mobile phones. The total value of these purchases exceeded 75,000 PLN, with funds originating from bank accounts of third-party victims of fraud. The criminals employed a well-planned scheme, sending fake SMS messages about alleged parking debts, which included links to fraudulent payment sites to gain access to victims' bank accounts. The stolen funds were then used to buy gift cards that could be easily liquidated. One suspect, a Chinese citizen illegally residing in Poland, has been arrested, while two others fled the country. The prosecution is investigating potential further arrests and whether the group operated in other regions of Poland.