Polish prosecutors charge suspect in Zondacrypto probe and seek detention

Prosecutors charge Romana Ż. in Zondacrypto case

Polish prosecutors have formally charged Romana Ż. with participation in an organized criminal group and misappropriation of 7.8 million zlotys (about $2.1 million) belonging to users of the cryptocurrency exchange Zondacrypto. The prosecution has asked the Katowice‑Wschód District Court to keep the suspect in pre‑trial detention.

Key details

• Romana Ż. was detained on 5 September 2026 over concerns of flight risk and possible interference with the investigation.
• The suspect denied the charges during questioning.
• Prosecutors allege unauthorized changes to computer records and interference with data processing at the exchange.
• Three other individuals were detained on 2 September 2026 and charged with money‑laundering, asset misappropriation and organized crime; they were ordered detained detention for up to three months.

Official court request

The prosecution’s request to the Katowice‑Wschód District Court cites a risk that the suspect could flee the country or tamper with evidence. The request was made in an official announcement on Monday by Poland’s National Prosecutor’s Office.

Background on Zondacrypto losses

Earlier reporting estimated that the total losses linked to Zondacrypto amount to at least 350 million zlotys. The investigation also merged in July with a separate probe into the 2022 disappearance of Sylwester Suszek, founder of BitBay, which later became Zondacrypto.

Unclear points

The court’s decision on the detention request has not yet been announced. Details about the exact amount of funds misappropriated by Romana Ż. beyond the reported figure are not confirmed.

Why it matters

Zondacrypto was a major cryptocurrency exchange in Poland. Misappropriation of user funds can erode trust in such platforms and may lead to tighter regulatory scrutiny of crypto businesses.

Next steps

The Katowice‑Wschód District Court will consider the detention request. If granted, the suspect will remain in custody while the case proceeds.

Sources

• Cointelegraph