Minister Coordinator of Special Services Tomasz Siemoniak defends the government’s handling of Zbigniew Ziobro and Marcin Romanowski, asserting that Polish law enforcement cannot legally execute extrajudicial arrest operations within NATO nations.
The Legal Limits of Polish Services
Tomasz Siemoniak argues that Polish special services and police cannot operate in foreign countries as they do domestically. He clarified that while authorities can cooperate with international counterparts, they are legally barred from conducting independent arrests on foreign soil, including in NATO and EU member states like Hungary.
Dispelling Sensationalist Expectations
Rejecting criticism that services should have tracked the individuals more aggressively, Siemoniak dismissed the idea of armed agents operating in Budapest as a fantasy. He stressed that such actions would endanger officers and violate the realities of working within a rule-of-law state.
Accusations of Evasion
Siemoniak sharply criticized Zbigniew Ziobro’s travel to the United States, suggesting the former Justice Minister is fleeing justice and the evidence gathered by the Internal Security Agency. He stated that Ziobro is avoiding a direct confrontation with the Polish judiciary.
Stalled Court Procedures
The minister expressed frustration with the judicial process, noting that the delay in reviewing the European Arrest Warrant for Ziobro is unacceptable. He argued that allowing such a case to drag on since February sets an absurd precedent for individuals suspected of serious crimes.
Diplomatic and Legal Recourse
Polish authorities have utilized diplomatic channels, including formal notes sent to Hungary and the United States regarding Ziobro and Romanowski. Siemoniak confirmed that Marcin Romanowski remains subject to an active European Arrest Warrant, and Polish authorities will pursue his detention regardless of his location.
