"I didn't know I was photographing something secret," Dembowski, 25, told Polish Radio. He was simply taking pictures of a popular Tunisian hotel when he was arrested. The incident spiraled out of control when undercover officers, followed by an anti-terrorist unit, detained him.
Dembowski shared his harrowing experience, detailing the poor treatment and dire conditions he faced. "They treated me as a guilty person, not as a tourist. It was not good treatment," he said. He lost 13 kilograms during his detention, struggled with infections, and often lacked access to food and water.
Initially, he was unable to inform anyone of his whereabouts, as his devices were confiscated.
His situation only began to improve as media coverage increased, putting pressure on Tunisian authorities. The involvement of the Polish Foreign Ministry, the consul, politicians, and his parents ultimately led to his acquittal and release.
Dembowski returned to Poland on June 27. The Polish Foreign Ministry has since issued a warning for travelers to exercise caution, noting that Tunisia has a state of emergency in place and prohibitions on photographing government buildings and officials.
(jh)
Source: Polish Radio