Polish Activist's Death in Ecuador: Polish Prosecutors Receive Documents

Polish prosecutors have received initial documents from Ecuador concerning the death of Monika Koniuszek, a Polish activist who had lived in Ecuador for over a decade. Koniuszek, known for exposing alleged corruption and land trading irregularities, was found dead in her Montañita apartment on June 8, 2026. The Olsztyn District Prosecutor's Office in Poland initiated its own investigation on June 12, classifying the case as a negligent homicide, though this may change as the investigation progresses. Prosecutor Brodowski stated that a request for international legal assistance was sent to Ecuador, seeking materials from their ongoing investigation. The Olsztyn prosecutor's office has now received preliminary documents through Polish diplomatic channels, which are currently being translated from Spanish. Polish authorities are not currently planning to travel to Ecuador, deferring to local authorities for the investigation. They are working to identify Koniuszek's next of kin for procedural steps. Her mother has traveled to Ecuador and will be questioned as a witness upon her return to Poland. Koniuszek, who led the La Integridad foundation, had reported threats for months prior to her death. Ecuadorian Interior Minister John Reimberg initially suggested suicide, but human rights organizations, citing autopsy findings, believe she was murdered. The EU Delegation in Quito and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights have called for a swift and transparent investigation.

“

We have received the first documents concerning the investigation conducted in this case by the Ecuadorian side.