Prosecutors Question Karol Nawrocki Over World War II Museum Misuse Allegations

The District Prosecutor’s Office in Gdańsk has interrogated Karol Nawrocki as a witness regarding potential abuse of power involving the unauthorized use of apartments at the Museum of the Second World War.

The Investigation Into Museum Assets

On July 9, the District Prosecutor’s Office in Gdańsk questioned Karol Nawrocki at the Presidential Palace in Warsaw. The investigation, initiated in February 2025, examines whether public officials allowed the unauthorized, rent-free use of museum-owned apartments and rooms between October 2017 and June 2024.

Prosecutor Mariusz Duszyński confirmed the testimony will be analyzed alongside other evidence. The probe covers the tenures of directors Karol Nawrocki, Grzegorz Berendt, and Rafał Wnuk. The investigation has been officially extended until August 24 as prosecutors await further documentation from the museum.

Disputed Use of Deluxe Facilities

The inquiry stems from reports that Nawrocki, while serving as museum director, occupied a deluxe apartment in a museum-affiliated hotel for over six months without payment. Nawrocki has denied living there for 200 days, stating he utilized the space for two 10-day COVID-19 quarantines and official meetings with domestic and foreign guests.

Separate Inquiry Into Property Acquisition

Nawrocki is also subject to a separate investigation by the Gdańsk-Śródmieście District Prosecutor’s Office concerning the acquisition of a studio apartment from Jerzy Ż. between 2012 and 2017. Prosecutors are examining potential fraud related to payment disputes and promised care for the former owner.

Authorities are currently seeking to question the notary involved in the property transfer. While the district court initially approved the lifting of notary privilege, the decision is not yet final, as the notary has filed an appeal that is currently being processed.