Corruption Network in Hungary Steals EU Funds; Charges Filed
The Central Investigative Prosecutor’s Office has recently made headlines as it presses charges in a large-scale corruption case involving tender grants. According to the Prosecutor General’s Office, 54 individuals, including senior officials, and 25 implicated legal entities have been indicted in connection with the case.
The charges revolve around bribery and related offences, with the total value of the funds received exceeding HUF 25 Billion (EUR 64,614,993). The investigation, comprising over 100,000 pages of documents, has culminated in a 400-page indictment. The alleged corruption activities primarily took place within the Economic Development and Innovation Operational Programme funded by the EU, as well as the Health Support Programme, funded domestically.
It is reported that a key official is said to have established a highly structured corruption network, utilizing extensive connections with project managers and executives of applicant companies. The indictment alleges that the scheme involved manipulation of audits, granting favourable evaluations for tender applications, and procurement of tender wins in exchange for millions of euros.
The Prosecutor General’s Office has also revealed that over 300 applications were scrutinized, 50 locations were searched, and over 600 pieces of criminal evidence were seized as part of the investigation. As a result, an extensive prison sentence, fines, and a permanent ban from public office have been recommended for the 12 implicated officials, alongside fines for the companies involved. Additionally, it has been proposed that assets amounting to around one billion forints (approximately EUR 2,584,599) be confiscated from the officials as part of the punishment.
To support asset confiscation, all assets – including those exceeding the received bribe amounts and any inconsistent with documented income – have been seized from the defendants and their relatives, leading to the defendants being placed under arrest. The statement from the Prosecutor General’s Office also highlighted the crucial role played by several suspects who made revealing confessions during the proceedings, significantly aiding in solving the case.
This major development in the fight against corruption in Hungary is a significant step towards holding those involved accountable for their actions. With the extensive evidence and recommendations put forth by the Prosecutor General’s Office, it is clear that there will be severe consequences for those found guilty in this case. The impact of such actions extends beyond the immediate individuals and entities involved, sending a strong message about the commitment to combating corruption at all levels.
In related news, the announcement of the first candidate for Hungarian President and the historic low reached by the Hungarian forint are also making waves across the country. Stay informed by reading more about these developments.
