Former Polish Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro is wanted internationally after a court ordered his three-month pre-trial detention.
Court Rejects Immunity Arguments
The court rejected arguments regarding parliamentary immunity, noting it had been effectively lifted, which defense had previously cited. The court also determined that both general and specific grounds for applying the most restrictive preventive measure—pre-trial detention—had been met.
26 Charges Against Ziobro and Criminal Group
According to the court, evidence gathered during the investigation indicates a high probability that Ziobro committed 26 offenses in total, including establishing and leading an organized criminal group and participating in the misappropriation of funds from the Justice Fund. The court emphasized the nature and scale of the alleged crimes necessitate securing proper judicial proceedings.
Ziobro’s Location Unknown
The court cited three specific grounds outlined in Article 258 § 1 and 2 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. It noted Ziobro is currently outside Poland within the EU, with his actual whereabouts unknown. His prior departure during the immunity revocation process, coupled with public statements indicating he would not appear before Polish authorities, suggests intentional avoidance of criminal liability.
25-Year Prison Sentence Possible
The court considered that the alleged crimes carry a maximum sentence of 25 years imprisonment, increasing the risk of evasion. It also stressed the high degree of social harm caused by the acts under investigation. The decision was made without any executive interference, and judicial independence was upheld.
Warrant Issued, Police Search Begins
On November 7, 2025, a prosecutor from the National Prosecutor’s Office’s Investigation Team No. 2 issued a warrant for Ziobro’s arrest and forced transport, which couldn’t be executed due to his unknown location. Based on Article 279 § 1 of the Code, allowing a warrant for a fugitive, the prosecutor initiated official searches. The Metropolitan Police Headquarters has been tasked with locating and apprehending the suspect.