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Poland unveils plan to toughen penal code

07.07.2022 19:00
The Polish justice minister has outlined a wide-ranging reform of criminal law that includes heavier sentences for the worst crimes. 
Polands Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro holds a news conference in Warsaw on Thursday, July 7, 2022.
Poland's Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro holds a news conference in Warsaw on Thursday, July 7, 2022.PAP/Paweł Supernak

Zbigniew Ziobro unveiled the proposed changes at a media briefing on Thursday, Polish state news agency PAP reported.

“One of the fundamental, basic duties of the state is to ensure the security of the people,” the justice minister said.

He added: “For law enforcement to function well, we need the best possible criminal law provisions.”

Life imprisonment without parole

Under the proposal, the worst crimes such as murder or “rape with extraordinary cruelty” would be punished by “unconditional life imprisonment.” 

Moreover, the second-longest jail sentence would be raised from 25 to 30 years, among other changes. 

In addition, those found guilty of drink-driving would have their cars confiscated. Bribery would be punished more severely than before, reporters were told.

The reform also envisages tougher prison rules. 

“The prison is not a sanatorium,” Ziobro told reporters.

(pm/gs)

Source: IAR, PAP