Former Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro, evading a warrant in Budapest, faces a response from Poland’s National Prosecution Office.
Ziobro’s Response
Ziobro labeled the warrant a “political persecution,” stating he is in Budapest with a known address. He claimed the law is being “brutally broken,” emphasizing his past adherence to legal norms as minister.
Prosecution’s Explanation
National Prosecution Office clarified a warrant applies if a suspect “hides abroad to evade arrest,” regardless of address visibility. Spokesperson Przemysław Nowak stressed Ziobro’s location remains inaccessible to Polish authorities, as noted by the court.
Legal Context
Lawyer Jakub Wende criticized Ziobro’s “surprising ignorance” of criminal procedure, distinguishing between search orders and warrants for hiding suspects. The court cited Ziobro’s Budapest address as a legal firm’s office, with uncollected correspondence.
Background on Charges
Ziobro faces 26 charges, including leading a criminal group and misusing Justice Fund funds. Warsaw-Mokotów court ordered his three-month pre-trial detention on February 5, citing flight risk and potential 25-year imprisonment.