Ukrainian deported from Poland after illegal sum catch in Warsaw, receives 5‑year Schengen ban

A 57‑year‑old Ukrainian fisherman illegally captured a European sum (approximately 180 cm long and 40 kg) from the artificial Balaton pond in Warsaw’s Gocław district on 31 May 2026. The catch violated Poland’s protected‑season ban on fishing for the species (in effect until 31 May) and used prohibited equipment. Video footage showed the fish being dragged onto a sidewalk, placed on the pavement and then packed into a car.

Police detained the man, and the case was handed to the Border Guard. On 3 June 2026 he was deported to Ukraine with an immediate order, and authorities imposed a five‑year entry ban on Poland and all Schengen states. He faces up to three years’ imprisonment for illegal fishing and animal cruelty.