Hungarian Investigators Find 17.7 Million Euros Hidden by Ex-Minister

Hungary’s newly created anti-corruption agency NVVH discovered 17,7 million euros in hidden cash during searches involving former minister Miklos Sesztak, ORF.at reported on Friday.

Investigators found the money buried in forests, hidden in agricultural buildings, warehouses, residential properties, and remote safes, according to Salzburger Nachrichten. The funds have been deposited into an account belonging to the Hungarian Treasury.

Sesztak served as minister for national development between 2014 and 2018. Authorities state he allegedly accepted bribes during the purchase of used buses at inflated prices by state transport companies.

Political Aftermath of the Orban Years

Peter Magyar described the discovery as a turning point for the country. “This marks officially the end of the Fidesz-KDNP-Mafia,” he said, according to ORF.at, referring to the former governing coalition of Viktor Orban.

Magyar’s Tisza Party won the April parliamentary election. The victory replaced Orban after 16 years in power.

Orban led Hungary through a period characterized by severe deficits in democracy, rule of law, and media freedom, Salzburger Nachrichten reported. Magyar launched the NVVH agency after taking office, promising investigations into corruption and abuse of power under the previous administration.

Authorities Arrest Three Former Ministers During Ongoing Investigation

Three former ministers have been arrested since the new agency began its work. The detained individuals include former economy minister and ex-central bank chief György Matolcsy, who served as Orban’s right hand, Kronen Zeitung reported.

Investigators executed searches at multiple locations as part of the criminal proceedings against Sesztak. The multi-currency cache spanned various locations across the country.

Authorities have not yet released additional details regarding other potential suspects or properties under surveillance. The investigation continues.