Doubts About Police Work After Pilnacek's Death: Ombudswoman Schwetz Intervenes

The ombudswoman nominated by the FPÖ, Elisabeth Schwetz, has launched an official investigation into police work surrounding the death of the former head of the justice department, Christian Pilnacek. This was triggered by critical media reports and the book by former National Council member Peter Pilz. Interior Minister Gerhard Karner (ÖVP) must now answer questions about operational procedures and investigations within six weeks.

"Serious Allegations" Against the Police Led to Speculations About Pilnacek's Death, According to Schwetz

According to Schwetz, the media coverage raises "potential suspicions" and partly "serious allegations" against the police. These concern both the immediate discovery of Pilnacek and the subsequent investigations. This has led to public speculations about the circumstances of the death. It is therefore necessary for the Ombudsman Board, as an independent control body, to take action. Karner is particularly expected to provide information about the police operation following the discovery of the body, the autopsy, and the securing of Pilnacek's personal belongings.

FPÖ General Secretary Christian Hafenecker Detects "Cover-Up Operation"

Support for the investigation comes from the FPÖ. General Secretary Christian Hafenecker stated in a press release that there is suspicion of a possible homicide and a "presumably politically motivated, large-scale cover-up operation." The ÖVP, in turn, reacted indignantly. Justice spokesperson Klaus Fürlinger accused the Freedom Party of politically co-opting the Ombudsman Board. It is not their task to "blindly chase after every conspiracy narrative from the internet."

The police and the public prosecutor's office firmly rejected these allegations. Pilnacek's body was discovered on October 20, 2023, near Krems. The investigation was conducted by the Lower Austria State Criminal Police Office. According to the Krems public prosecutor's office, foul play was ruled out, supported by an external expert report.

Investigations Against Lower Austrian Police Officers Despite "Strict Compliance with All Relevant Regulations"

The Lower Austrian State Police Director Franz Popp emphasized that the investigations were conducted "in strict compliance with all relevant regulations and legal provisions." The Vienna Public Prosecutor's Office also stated that the necessary steps for clarification had been taken.

In parallel, the Economic and Corruption Prosecutor's Office (WKStA) continues to investigate Lower Austrian police officers. The background is a complaint by Martin Kreutner, the head of the investigation commission appointed by former Justice Minister Alma Zadić (Green Party). It relates to the removal of Pilnacek's personal belongings after the discovery of the body.

(APA/Red)

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