December 29, 2009

Poland to ask Sweden for help over theft of Auschwitz sign

Polish investigators yet to confirm that formal request to Stockholm suggests Swedish link to crime

Poland will formally seek Sweden's help in investigating the theft of the Arbeit Macht Frei sign from Auschwitz, confirming that Polish authorities suspect a Swedish link in the crime. Boguslawa Marcinkowska, a spokeswoman for Krakow prosecutors, said a formal request for help would be sent tomorrow to the Swedish justice ministry in Stockholm.

Polish media have been reporting that the theft was commissioned by a collector living in Sweden, but investigators have yet to confirm that.

The sign, which means "work sets you free," was stolen earlier this month and was found two days later cut into three pieces. Police have arrested five men whom they described as common criminals who likely stole the sign on a commission from abroad.

Guardian

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