Polish authorities are considering an international arrest warrant for former Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro while tracking Marcin Romanowski, who may be hiding in Turkey to evade justice following corruption allegations.
Legal Pressure on Ziobro
The Polish Ministry of Justice is actively seeking the revocation of Zbigniew Ziobro’s refugee status in Hungary to facilitate his return. Officials are considering both formal extradition and deportation through immigration channels to ensure he faces charges in Poland.
Prosecutors have finalized an extradition request for Ziobro from the United States, where he is currently believed to be residing. While the legal process could take years, authorities intend to move forward with the filing this month once the formal requirements are met.
The Search for Romanowski
Recent intelligence suggests Marcin Romanowski may have sought refuge in Turkey after being tracked through Serbia and Croatia. Investigators believe Turkey offers a strategic advantage for Romanowski due to the lack of an European Arrest Warrant agreement and the ease of establishing residency through property investment.
Journalist Mariusz Gierszewski suggests that Romanowski, dubbed the “Polish Snowden” for his extensive knowledge of state security, is likely living discreetly to avoid detection. Turkish immigration rules allow for long-term stays through the Ikamet permit, which complicates potential recovery efforts by Polish “shadow hunters.”
Background of the Fugitives
Both Ziobro and Romanowski previously obtained political asylum in Hungary during the Orban administration. Following changes in the Hungarian political landscape and subsequent investigations into the Justice Fund, both men left Hungary, leaving their previously rented properties vacant.
The Polish National Prosecutor’s Office has formally charged both men in connection with irregularities within the Justice Fund. While an European Arrest Warrant has been issued for Romanowski, the legal status regarding Ziobro remains a subject of ongoing judicial deliberation.
