Ukrainian driver caught smuggling 910 cigarette packs in ambulance at Poland's Korczowa border

A 39‑year‑old Ukrainian woman arrived at the Korczowa border crossing in a parked ambulance, claiming she was transporting sick patients for treatment in Germany. Customs officials grew suspicious of possible smuggling and conducted an in‑depth inspection that required partial disassembly of the vehicle. Inside a side compartment they uncovered 910 packs of untaxed cigarettes, prompting a criminal‑tax investigation. Police have not confirmed whether any patients were actually on board, and the woman now faces legal proceedings for the alleged contraband.

The incident highlights heightened border controls and the use of medical vehicles for illicit transport, prompting authorities to tighten inspections at Poland’s eastern entry points.