A London court will reconvene Monday to decide on the extradition of former head of the State Assets Restitution (RARS) agency, Marek Kuczmierowski, to Poland.
RARS Affair Returns to Court
The Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London is scheduled to meet on Monday, April 13th, at 10:00 AM local time (11:00 AM Polish time) regarding the extradition case of Marek Kuczmierowski.
A previous final hearing date of February 27th was postponed. Adam Gomoła stated in December 2024 that even with a verdict, appeals are likely, with no definitive end date.
Previous Delays and Defense Efforts
The Westminster Magistrates’ Court had previously considered the extradition request, but the decision was repeatedly delayed. The last hearing in September 2024 was postponed due to a failure in London’s water supply, halting court operations.
Kuczmierowski’s defense sought a “letter of grace,” which would have prevented his arrest upon return to Poland pending the conclusion of proceedings. However, the Warsaw District Court denied this request on September 10, 2024, with the prosecution opposing it each time.
Kuczmierowski’s Arrest and Release on Bail
Kuczmierowski was arrested in London in early September 2024 based on a European Arrest Warrant issued by Polish authorities. In February 2025, the British justice system allowed him to be released on bail and a property bond.
Kuczmierowski was released on February 10th. Reports indicate that politicians linked to the Mateusz Morawiecki government may have intervened with British authorities, reminding them of Kuczmierowski’s earlier cooperation with equipment deliveries to Ukraine during the initial phase of the Russian invasion.
Investigation into RARS Irregularities
The investigation into irregularities within RARS began on December 1st, 2023, and is being led by the Silesian Branch of the Department for Organized Crime and Corruption of the National Prosecutor’s Office in Katowice.
The investigation concerns alleged abuse of power and failure to fulfill duties by RARS employees during procurement processes between February 23, 2021, and November 27, 2023, in Warsaw, with the aim of financial gain.
Charges Against Former RARS Head
In August 2024, prosecutors charged Kuczmierowski with participation in an organized crime group, dereliction of duty, and abuse of power for financial gain.