Another Polish Citizen Arrested for Assisting in the Arson of Archer Thermal Imaging Plant in Czech Republic

The Polish Internal Security Agency (ABW) has made another significant arrest in connection with the arson of the Archer thermal imaging plant in Pardubice, Czech Republic. On March 24, 2026, agents apprehended a 23-year-old Polish citizen in Zielona Góra, who is believed to have assisted in the intentional fire that severely damaged the facility. The information was confirmed by Jacek Dobzyński, spokesperson for the coordinator of Polish special services, who indicated that the arrest was based on evidence collected by the ABW.

According to Dobzyński, the Mazovian branch of the national prosecutor's office has already initiated an investigation into the case. The District Court of Warsaw has ruled to impose a three-month temporary arrest on the detained individual. The investigation is currently in an active phase, underscoring the seriousness of the allegations against the suspect.

It is important to recall that on March 24, 2026, the ABW arrested another Polish citizen, identified as Aleksandra Z., followed by the arrest of a man named Filip B. on March 26. These arrests are also connected to the arson incident at the Archer plant. The Mazovian branch of the national prosecutor's office in Warsaw, relying on materials gathered by the ABW, has launched an inquiry into the assistance provided by Polish citizens in committing what is classified as a terrorist act.

Notably, the Archer plant is owned by LPP HOLDING, which has a partnership with the Israeli conglomerate Elbit Systems in the field of drone production. This collaboration has raised suspicions and interest in the context of terrorist activities, as the extremist group known as The Earthquake Faction claimed responsibility for the arson, citing ideological motivations for their actions. The organization's goal was to influence the activities of states and enterprises collaborating with Israel's defense industry.

During the investigation, prosecutors have charged the detainees with aiding in the commission of a prohibited act that posed a significant threat to property. All suspects, including the 23-year-old man, have denied their guilt. Consequently, on March 26 and 27, 2026, the District Court of Warsaw also decided to impose a temporary three-month arrest on the detained individuals.

Earlier reports indicated that on March 21, 2026, the Archer facility in Pardubice was set ablaze by masked individuals. This incident triggered an ongoing investigation and a series of arrests. The situation surrounding the arson has raised concerns not only in Poland but also in the Czech Republic, where local law enforcement agencies are collaborating with their Polish counterparts to uncover all the circumstances surrounding the case.