AUtories in Hungary have seized nearly $20m in cash, allegedly hiding in forests, farm buildings, warehouses and private property, under a corruption investigation into former minister of Viktor Orban’s government, Miklos Sestak.
By ReutersThe money was discovered during investigations conducted, which found large sums hidden in various locations.
Finance Minister Andras Karman announced that the seized amount includes 5.07 billion Hungarian Forinta, 2.66m euros and $1.26m. A total of 12 employees of the State Treasury, which took eight hours and five bills to count, were engaged in the counting of money.
Miklos Cesztak, who served as minister of development in the Orban government from 2014 to 2018, has denied any involvement in abuses. Meanwhile, his lawyer has not commented on the charge of money.
The action is part of the widespread anti-corruption campaign, which current Prime Minister Peter Magyar has called the Purgatoriʹ operation.
Magyar came to power after winning the April elections, ending Victor Orban’s 16 years of governing. He has promised fighting corruption and improving relations with the European Union, which had deteriorated during his predecessor’s rule.