Hungarian investigators recovered nearly $20 million in cash, some buried in forests and concealed in buildings and safes, during an investigation involving former National Development Minister Miklós Seszták, authorities announced Friday. The Associated Press reported the recovered money was worth approximately $19.5 million.
Investigators searched locations in Budapest and three counties on November 12 and 13, finding Hungarian forints, euros and U.S. dollars in farm buildings, warehouses, a residential property and a secluded safe, as well as underground. The money was deposited with Hungary’s State Treasury, according to the agency’s statement.
The case includes allegations of bribes connected to the state bus company and public construction projects, according to Hungarian news agency MTI. Seszták denies wrongdoing. His lawyer told Telex that the agency’s announcement did not establish the money belonged to his client and noted that the case involves multiple suspects.