Colombian Arsonist Exposed as Key Player in Russian Sabotage Operations Across Europe

A Colombian man found guilty of arson in the Czech Republic has also been linked to sabotage activities in Poland, which authorities attribute to Russian influence, Polish officials announced on Tuesday.

The 27-year-old was charged last week with “terrorism-related offenses” after being implicated in fires that occurred at two construction supply warehouses in Poland in May 2024, as stated by Poland’s Internal Security Agency (ABW). If found guilty, he could face a prison sentence ranging from 10 years to life.

According to the ABW, “These acts were commissioned, overseen, and financed by an individual associated with Russian intelligence services.”

Earlier, in June 2025, the same individual was sentenced to eight years in prison by a court in the Czech Republic for igniting a fire at a bus depot in Prague and attempting to orchestrate an arson attack on a shopping center.

The ABW has accused Russian operatives of utilizing Telegram to systematically recruit individuals with military experience, particularly from Latin America, to conduct arson attacks.

European nations have increasingly pointed to Russian intelligence agencies as the organizers of sabotage efforts throughout Europe, including in Poland, Lithuania, and the Czech Republic.