Viktor Orbán Says Brother Is Targeted as Hungary Probes Suspected Corruption
Arrests and searches near Budapest
Police said on Monday they arrested four people and searched four locations in and around Budapest. Officers expected firearms at two sites, so Hungary’s Counter-Terrorism Centre assisted with the operation.
Probe focuses on permits
Investigators are examining allegations that political connections were used to secure faster work permits for foreign nationals in exchange for large payments. One suspect is also alleged to have sought influence over the acquisition of residence permits. Fidesz, Orbán’s party, added Áron Orbán to a list on its website identifying “political prisoners.” The report says Áron is believed to have been taken into custody, but authorities have not confirmed his identity.
Other officials under investigation
Several officials from the Orbán era are already in detention on suspicion of fraud and corruption. They include György Matolcsy, a former Central Bank governor and one of Orbán’s closest economic allies.
Police detained Matolcsy in October over suspected fraud and other crimes. He is suspected of misusing funds through a foundation established in 2014 and endowed with about $818 million, or roughly £609 million, in public assets.
Key points
- Police arrested four people and searched four sites in and around Budapest.
- The investigation examines alleged payments for faster work and residence permits.
- Police have not confirmed whether Áron Orbán is among those detained.
- Former Central Bank governor György Matolcsy is also under investigation.