Police detained a 57-year-old Ukrainian citizen suspected of catching a huge, legendary catfish from the Balaton pond in Warsaw’s Gocław district. The fish, which had lived in the pond for about 20 years and was well known among anglers, measured over 170 centimeters in length.
The incident took place a few days ago, at the end of May. The men rented a pedal boat and paddled to the middle of the pond, which is prohibited on this body of water. They caught the catfish during the protected season for this species (lasting until May 31), and then threw it alive into the trunk of a car. According to witnesses, the fish suffered for a long time.
The case quickly caused an uproar on social media. Internet users posted recordings and photos showing the men ignoring the protests of onlookers and driving away with the fish. The catfish was treated by anglers as a local attraction and legend – in the past, when someone caught it, it was usually released back into the water.
On Wednesday, June 3, the Warsaw VII District Police Station (Komenda Rejonowa Policji Warszawa VII) announced the detention of the 57-year-old. The man was detained in Praga Południe and is currently being questioned. A search for the second participant in the incident is ongoing.
– The actions were taken based on media reports – said Sub-Inspector Joanna Węgrzyniak of the Warsaw District Police Station.
Police are gathering evidence. The man may face charges related to illegal fishing during the protected season and violating the rules of the body of water.
The case has sparked a heated debate online – ranging from sharp condemnation of 'poaching’ and 'barbarism’ to voices downplaying the incident. There are also many comments calling for the deportation of Ukrainians who break the law in Poland.
