Korruptionsverdacht: Behörden nehmen Bruder des ungarischen Ex-Premiers Orbán fest

Budapest: Hungarian authorities have arrested the brother of former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Péter Magyar, in connection with alleged corruption during Orbán's 16-year tenure. Prime Minister Magyar confirmed the arrest in parliament on Monday. The investigation targets corruption during Orbán's rule, and the police arrested several individuals and conducted searches of their homes.

The operation was carried out with the new anti-corruption authority established by Magyar after his decisive win in April. Police initially did not name the arrested person but referred to a human trafficking case. Prime Minister Magyar stated that the focus is on Áron Orbán, who is currently being questioned. Magyar's fight against corruption was a key promise in his election campaign.

His reforms, including the depoliticization of the judiciary, have freed over 16 billion euros in EU funds that were frozen under Orbán's rule. Under the title "Operation Cleansing Fire," the campaign targets individuals who were previously considered untouchable due to their close political ties. Three previous Orbán ministers have already been arrested, including former Central Bank chief György Matolcsy.

All deny any wrongdoing. Orbán, whose Fidesz party has fallen in the polls since the power change, sees the arrest of his brother as political retaliation. On Facebook, he wrote, "My real target is myself; my brother is just a tool." More: First former minister from Orbán's government arrested for corruption.