Polish prosecutors have ordered an asset seizure against former Justice Minister and PiS MP Zbigniew Ziobro, after lifting his parliamentary immunity and before his arrest.
Prosecutors Announce Asset Seizure
The National Prosecutor General’s office confirmed that it has placed a seizure on the assets of Zbigniew Ziobro to ensure that future court-ordered penalties—such as fines, restitution, forfeiture or return of benefits—can be enforced. The seizure is intended to prevent the suspect from disposing of, encumbering or hiding his property while the investigation continues. The action is authorized under Article 291(1) of the Polish Code of Criminal Procedure, which allows a prosecutor to secure assets if there is a justified suspicion that enforcement of the judgment would otherwise be impossible or severely impeded.
Immunity Lifted, Arrest Planned
On Monday the Sejm voted to strip Ziobro of his parliamentary immunity and authorized his arrest. Prosecutors plan to file 26 charges against him, including the establishment and leadership of an organized crime group and the defrauding of funds from the Justice Fund. The prosecutor general faces a potential maximum sentence of 25 years in prison. Ziobro is believed to remain in Hungary during the legal proceedings.
Diplomatic Passport Revoked
Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski voided Ziobro’s diplomatic passport on November 18, acting on the request of the National Prosecutor General. A preliminary court hearing regarding the former minister is scheduled for December 22. The case will be decided by the District Court for Warsaw‑Mokotów.