Polish police have detained two individuals for spreading anti-Ukrainian fake news online following the tragic death of an 11-year-old girl in Jelenia Góra. The suspects face criminal charges and up to three years in prison.
According to Hvylya, citing the-warsaw, social media was flooded with false reports claiming a Ukrainian child was responsible for the girl's death. This misinformation triggered a wave of hate speech and numerous threats against Ukrainians. Police identified two authors of these posts who now face legal action and potential prison time.
The child's tragic death became a catalyst for mass hostile comments against Ukrainians living in Poland. Although preliminary investigations confirmed the schoolgirl was killed by a 12-year-old Polish classmate, the internet was filled with false accusations explicitly naming a Ukrainian girl as the murderer.
"This is how it all starts, Ukrainian children killing our children. And what are you doing? You’re f***ing sleeping," said TikTok user Marcin Bugaj in one video. Numerous similar videos and accusations appeared online, with users sharing fake personal data and AI-generated photos of the alleged killer while calling for lynch law.
Police have already identified two authors of these posts. According to an official statement, investigative measures are currently underway regarding these individuals.
Officers reportedly seized a mobile phone from one of the suspects. Both are charged with inciting national hatred under Article 256 of the Polish Penal Code, an offense punishable by up to three years in prison.
The 11-year-old’s body was discovered on December 15 near her school with wounds from a sharp object. Investigators believe the teenager was killed by her 12-year-old classmate; the two reportedly did not have a close relationship.
The Mayor of Jelenia Góra declared a day of mourning on the day of the funeral. Students at the school are receiving psychological support, and the case is being handled by the court in a closed session.
