Ukraine Accuses Hungary of Torture-Like Treatment of Detained Oschadbank Collectors

Kyiv has accused Hungarian security forces of using methods akin to torture against Ukrainian citizens detained in Hungary earlier this month. The allegations center around the treatment of seven Oschadbank collection officers who were apprehended on March 6th even as transporting cash and bank metals.

Allegations of Mistreatment

According to a statement by Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi, Hungarian authorities allegedly denied medical assistance to one detainee and administered an injection to another, which subsequently worsened their condition. Tykhyi stated that these actions could be equated to torture.

The Ministry is calling for a thorough investigation into reports that Hungarian security forces employed tactics reminiscent of the KGB.

Ukraine’s Demands

Ukraine is demanding that all individuals responsible for the kidnapping and inhumane treatment of the Oschadbank collectors be brought to justice. Kyiv is also seeking the return of funds and gold allegedly stolen from Oschadbank.

Background

The detentions occurred on March 6th when two Oschadbank vehicles transporting cash and bank metals were stopped by Hungarian authorities. Seven collection officers were taken into custody. A criminal case has been opened in Ukraine regarding the kidnapping of the collectors.

Ongoing Investigation

Tykhyi emphasized the importance of legally evaluating information published in the media as investigations and trials proceed.