Poland Charges Former Official for Misuse of Spyware Funds and Surveillance

Poland’s Former Deputy Minister of Justice Charged in Pegasus Spyware Scandal

In a shocking turn of events, Poland’s former Deputy Minister of Justice, Michał Woś, has been charged with exceeding his powers and failing to fulfill his obligations in relation to the unauthorized transfer of PLN 25 million for the purchase of the controversial Pegasus spyware. The charges come after the Polish parliament voted to lift Woś’s legal immunity, allowing for his prosecution.

The investigation into the misuse of the Pegasus spyware revealed that nearly 600 people were targeted for surveillance between 2017 and 2022, including opposition figures like Krzysztof Brejza, a member of the European Parliament. Text messages from Brejza’s phone were allegedly doctored and leaked, sparking outrage and calls for accountability.

Woś is accused of abusing his authority by ordering the Justice Fund to pay the Central Anticorruption Bureau for the spyware, despite knowing that the agency did not meet the necessary criteria for such funding. The crime carries a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years, with the prosecutor arguing that Woś’s actions caused significant financial damage to the Polish Treasury and undermined the public interest.

Despite appearing before the prosecutor and providing explanations for his actions, Woś has not admitted to the charges against him. To ensure a smooth legal process, a preventive measure has been imposed on Woś, requiring him to report to the police twice a month and prohibiting him from contacting certain individuals involved in the case.

The new administration in Poland has also taken steps to counter the proliferation and misuse of spyware, signing a pledge with the Biden administration. As the case unfolds, the public awaits further developments in this high-profile scandal.