For the past week, the entire nation has been focused on the southern regions of Poland, where residents are grappling with severe floods and their aftermath. In the hardest-hit areas, essential goods are often in short supply, with limited access to water, electricity, and gas. Rescuers and volunteers are working tirelessly to deliver necessities to those affected, helping them get by in any way possible.

While the majority of citizens are doing their utmost to assist those in need, some are exploiting the crisis for personal gain. It might be expected that such a disaster would unite all Poles in a spirit of solidarity, yet an unsettling incident occurred in Lądek-Zdrój, where looters took advantage of the chaos to enrich themselves.

This is not an isolated case. Reports from southern Poland indicate that some individuals are engaging in unfair practices, targeting consumers during this upsetting time. The Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) is stepping in to address these violations.

On Wednesday, 18 September, UOKiK announced via its website that it would be conducting investigations in the flooded areas. The agency’s staff aim to determine whether fraudulent activities are taking place in western and southern Poland, as there have been reports of individuals illegally inflating the prices of essential goods to capitalise on the disaster. Those responsible will be held accountable.

"The effects of the floods are being felt by thousands of those affected. The tragedy of these individuals may tempt some to take advantage of the situation, for example, by raising the price of goods or services. The President of UOKiK will assess, within the scope of its authority, whether price increases have occurred and if they are the result of market collusion or the abuse of dominant market positions by major companies," reads a statement on the UOKiK website.

Additionally, UOKiK’s website notes that "independently of UOKiK's proceedings, and without prior notice to businesses, the Trade Inspectorate—under the President's authority—will take action. Inspectors will respond to signals from the market and investigate any entrepreneurs acting unlawfully."

At a briefing on Wednesday, UOKiK President Tomasz Chróstny addressed the situation, urging businesses to act responsibly. "Residents of flood-affected areas are facing an incredibly challenging situation. I appeal to entrepreneurs to act with integrity and refrain from taking advantage of this tragedy. Now more than ever, businesses—especially major market players—must demonstrate solidarity and responsibility," he said.