Hungary’s government has moved state-run juvenile detention centres under direct police supervision in response to an abuse scandal at a facility in Budapest. The decision comes after a video showing physical abuse at the centre was published by a former lawmaker and opposition activist, sparking public outrage.
Incident Details
The video led to the resignation of the acting director of the Budapest juvenile centre. Prosecutors have detained three people connected to the state-run facility and are investigating the former director for alleged involvement in prostitution, money laundering, and human trafficking. The government cited failures in the social care system’s management of these centres as a key factor in the decision to place them under police oversight.
Political Fallout
Opposition leader Peter Magyar, head of the Tisza party, has called on Prime Minister Viktor Orban to resign and urged early elections. Magyar also announced a demonstration for Saturday in Budapest to protest the scandal. This incident follows a previous controversy that led to the resignation of President Katalin Novak, marking a rare political setback for Orban, who has been in power since 2010.
Current Status
The five state-run juvenile detention centres are now under direct police supervision. Prosecutors continue investigations into the abuse allegations, and further details are expected. Public demonstrations and political pressure are mounting ahead of upcoming elections.
With information from Reuters.