Ex-Hungarian PM Viktor Orban Alleges 'Political Persecution' After Brother's Reported Arrest for People Smuggling

Former Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has accused the country’s new government of “political persecution” following the reported arrest of his younger brother, Aron Orban. Hungarian police reportedly detained Aron Orban on Monday, with suspicions including people smuggling, according to a press report shared by Prime Minister Peter Magyar. Viktor Orban’s tenure, marked by staunch opposition to immigration, concluded with a defeat in the April elections. The news of the arrest was initially published by Kontroll, a news outlet owned by Magyar’s brother, Marton. While local media reported that police conducted raids involving Aron Orban’s business associates, authorities have not confirmed his detention. Viktor Orban asserted that the government’s action was intended to “divert attention” from other matters, stating on X, “I am the real target. My younger brother is simply being used to get to me.” Aron Orban, like other members of the Orban family, established several successful businesses during his brother’s time in power. In the previous year, an investigation by the news site Telex had linked Aron Orban and his associates to an alleged scheme involving visas for foreign guest workers. Authorities have confirmed the detention of four individuals suspected of people smuggling. Pro-EU conservative Peter Magyar secured a decisive election victory in April, ending Viktor Orban’s 16-year rule, and pledged to investigate alleged corruption and abuse of power during his predecessor’s administration.