Armed Fugitive on the Loose After Syringe Stabbing Attempt on Police
37-year-old Kotwica, wanted for breaching court bail, is now a fugitive after a terrifying attack where he tried to stab two police officers with syringes. Once based in Longford, he has links to Gloucester and Churchdown.
Hair-Raising Syringe Standoff in 2021
Back in 2021, an alcohol-fuelled Kotwica confronted two officers, wielding a hypodermic syringe in each hand. Despite stern police warnings to back off, he pressed forward, brandishing exposed needles.
Prosecutor Caighli Taylor described the chilling moment: “He removed the caps from the syringes, exposing the needles, and kept coming at the officers. Despite their warnings, he persisted.”
Electric Shock Needed to Stop Syringe-Wielding Man
In a desperate bid to protect themselves, both officers drew tasers. The first 50,000-volt shock failed to stop Kotwica, who clung to his syringes. Only the second high-voltage blast brought him down, allowing police to disarm and arrest him.
Courtroom Drama: A Scene Straight Out of a Movie
Defence solicitor Matthew Harbinson compared the encounter to a movie showdown. “Picture Indiana Jones facing a sword-wielding adversary,” he said. “Instead of a drawn-out battle, Jones calmly pulls out a gun and shoots. That’s precisely what happened here.”
Police Issue Urgent Public Appeal to Find Kotwica
Kotwica remains on the run despite extensive police efforts. Authorities are asking the public for help to locate him. He is described as stocky, 5ft 9in, with a shaved head, brown beard and moustache. Key identifiers include a tattoo of rosary beads around his neck and a right ear piercing.
If you see Kotwica or know where he is, report it immediately through these channels:
- Submit tips via the Gloucestershire Police Online Form, quoting crime number 13076/24
- Call 101 for non-emergency police assistance
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111 or online
