Illegal transport of plant protection products: Ukrainian driver detained in Gronów Elbląski

KAS officers thwarted the effort to smuggle dangerous substances. 900 litres of unauthorised plant protection products have been secured.

In mid-March, an illegal transport of plant protection products was stopped on the DK22 national road in the municipality of Gronowo Elbląskie. Warmia-Mazury Customs and taxation Office in Olsztyn (WMUCS) stopped a truck run by a Ukrainian citizen, where unmarked chemicals were transported.

Irregularities in transport: no papers and markings

The vehicle, moving on Polish registration numbers, did not have the required ADR markings, which are mandatory for the transport of dangerous goods. In addition, the driver did not study the transport to BDO systems or SENT systems.

During the inspection, officers discovered 45 Cartonsand in each of them 4 Unmarked five-litre containers with unknown liquid. full secured 180 containers (900 litres of liquid)and 181 self-adhesive labels with print, mobile phones, SIM cards and a truck.

A measurement withdrawn from trading in the EU – a serious infringement

The driver could not explain the origin of the goods or find what they were carrying. The officers so consulted the Provincial Inspectorate for Plant Protection and Seeds in Elbląg. The expert confirmed that the substance indicated on the protected labels has been withdrawn from the marketplace in the European Union.

The samples taken were tested in the laboratory of the Pomeranian Customs and taxation Office in Gdynia. Analysis confirmed presence illegal insecticideprohibited for usage in the EU.

Threat of punishment: up to 2 years in prison

The case was referred to the territory Attorney's Office in Elbląg and then transferred to the Municipal Police office in Elbląg. Drivers are liable for criminal liability on the basis of:

• Plant protection Products Act (fine, conviction of imprisonment or imprisonment up to 2 years),
• Waste Act (if the substance was considered waste).

This is another case in which KAS officers effectively counter the illicit trade in dangerous substances, protecting the environment and public health.