Polish prosecutors charge fifth suspect in Zondacrypto case, alleging $2.1 million theft

Fifth suspect charged in Zondacrypto probe

Polish prosecutors have filed charges against Roman Ż., the fifth person publicly identified in the investigation of crypto exchange Zondacrypto. He was detained on September 5 and is accused of taking part in an organized criminal group and stealing about PLN 7.8 million (≈ $2.1 million) from exchange users.

Key points

• Roman Ż. faces two charges: participation in an organized criminal group and misappropriation of user funds.
• The alleged theft totals PLN 7.8 million (about $2.1 million).
• Prosecutors allege the group altered computer records without authorization to gain financial benefit.
• Pre‑trial detention has been requested; the offense carries a maximum 10‑year prison term.
• The broader Zondacrypto case involves at least PLN 350 million (≈ $94 million) in reported losses and over 3,600 crime reports.

Prosecutors’ filing

The National Prosecutor’s Office in Poland announced the charges and the request for pre‑trial detention. The filing states that the alleged crimes could obstruct the investigation and that the suspect might flee.

Confirmed facts

• Roman Ż. was detained on September 5, 2026.
• He is charged with two offenses: organized‑crime participation and misappropriation of PLN 7.8 million.
• The Zondacrypto investigation has identified five suspects, including Radosław P., Anna P., Jaromira W., and Rafał Z.
• Prosecutors estimate losses of at least PLN 350 million in the case.

Uncertainties

• The exact total loss amount may change as more victim reports are received.
• Details about how the alleged record alterations were carried out have not been disclosed.

Why it matters

The case highlights potential fraud on a crypto exchange, where users store digital assets. If the allegations are proven, victims could lose significant amounts of money, and the investigation may affect confidence in similar platforms.

Next steps

Prosecutors have asked the Katowice Wschód District Court to keep Roman Ż. in pre‑trial detention while the case proceeds. The court’s decision will determine whether he remains in custody pending trial.

Sources

• The Block