The incident occurred on October 10, 2026, in the afternoon, in Polkowice. The duty officer at the local police station received a report of a citizen’s arrest of an intoxicated driver. The reporting person intervened by taking the man’s keys and preventing him from driving any farther.
Nearly 3‰ and a driving ban
Police officers were sent to the scene and tested the 39-year-old Ukrainian citizen. The test showed nearly 3‰ of alcohol in his exhaled air. Officers also determined that the man was subject to an active court ban on driving all motor vehicles.
The 39-year-old admitted that he had consumed alcohol earlier. However, he did not appreciate the seriousness of his conduct; he insisted that “nothing had happened”.
Officers remind the public that driving a car while intoxicated is a crime, even if no accident or collision has occurred. An intoxicated driver endangers not only himself, but also passengers and other road users.
Detention and an application for return to his country
The man was detained and then brought before the court under expedited proceedings. Police also temporarily seized his vehicle.
After the procedures were completed, the 39-year-old was handed over to Border Guard officers. At the same time, the police filed an application requiring him to return, which means that proceedings concerning his departure from Polish territory have been initiated.
Up to 5 years in prison
Failure to comply with a court driving ban is punishable by between 3 months and 5 years in prison. The same penalty applies to driving while intoxicated during the period when the ban is in force.
Police also emphasize the importance of the witness’s response; he did not remain indifferent to the dangerous situation. Taking the keys and notifying the services prevented the driver from continuing and may have averted serious consequences.