Nearly $20 Million Cash Found in Hungary Amid Corruption Probe

Hungarian investigators have uncovered $19.5 million in hidden cash, including bundles unearthed in forests and various buildings, as part of a corruption investigation into the period of former Prime Minister Viktor Orban's rule. This discovery was made by the National Asset Recovery and Protection Office, a new agency established by the current government to investigate suspected misuse of public funds.

Highlights

• $19.5 million in cash was found during a corruption probe in Hungary, linked to the administration of former Prime Minister Viktor Orban.
• The money was discovered hidden underground in forests, as well as in farm buildings, warehouses, and a home.
• The find is connected to an ongoing investigation involving former Development Minister Miklos Sesztak, who faces bribery allegations.
• New Prime Minister Peter Magyar described the recovery as the end of what he called the "Fidesz-KDNP mafia."
• A recent survey indicates that 70% of Hungarians consider investigating alleged corruption under Orban very important.

Details

The National Asset Recovery and Protection Office conducted searches on November 12 and 13 in Budapest and three other regions of Hungary. Investigators found Hungarian forints, euros, and US dollars concealed in various locations, including farm buildings, warehouses, a residence, a "high-value safe in a secluded location," and buried beneath the ground in forests. The agency stated that the recovered funds have been deposited with the state treasury.

This discovery is linked to an investigation into Miklos Sesztak, who served as Hungary's development minister from 2014 to 2018. Sesztak is suspected of receiving over $37.2 million in bribes and kickbacks related to overpriced secondhand bus purchases by a state transport company and government construction projects. Sesztak has denied any wrongdoing.

Why it matters

This event is seen as a tangible demonstration of new Prime Minister Peter Magyar's commitment to fighting corruption, following his center-right, pro-European Tisza party ending Orban's 16-year tenure in April. Magyar stated on Facebook that this recovery signals the end of the "Fidesz-KDNP mafia." Orban, on the other hand, has previously accused the new government of using these investigations to force him out of politics. A recent survey by pollster Median, published by Hungarian news website HVG, revealed that a significant majority of 70% of respondents consider investigating suspected corruption under Orban and holding those responsible accountable to be very important.