Near Zebrzydowa railway station, metal components securing the rails disappeared from the tracks. The damage to the track could have caused a disaster. Fortunately, PKP employees replaced the missing parts in time. The thieves are people who sell track components at scrap-metal collection points.
Unfortunately, Polish law contains no regulations requiring scrap dealers to document the origin of the materials they purchase. Another factor contributing to the increase in this type of theft is the rising price of scrap and non-ferrous metals—the price of scrap has doubled since last year.
Railways have long struggled with the theft of components essential for the proper operation of trains. According to police statistics, last year alone, total losses resulting from the theft of train-traffic control equipment amounted to PLN 11.5 million.