Closure of the money laundering investigation
The Criminal Investigation Department of the National Tax and Customs Administration of Hungary (NAV) has closed the money laundering investigation against the Ukrainian cash transporters of Oschadbank due to lack of evidence of the crime. The investigation confirmed the legal origin of the banknotes and gold related to the interbank operation between Raiffeisen Bank and Oschadbank. Lawyer Dr. Lorant Gorvat represents the interests of Oschadbank in this case.
According to NAV, the cash and gold that were seized during the inspection are linked to the interbank operation of Raiffeisen Bank International AG and Oschadbank. The bank provided documentation about the origin of the banknotes and precious metals, as well as confirmation of Oschadbank’s payment for the purchase. The investigation concluded that the banknotes and gold were not obtained as a result of criminal activity.
Arrests and the NBU's reaction
On March 5, 2026, two cash transport service vehicles of Oschadbank and seven crew members were detained in Hungary. According to Oschadbank, the cash transport vehicles were carrying 40 million dollars, 35 million euros, and 9 kilograms of gold. NAV initiated criminal proceedings on suspicion of money laundering against seven citizens of Ukraine, among whom, according to NAV, was a retired general of the Ukrainian special service. On March 6, all detained employees of Oschadbank returned to Ukraine.
The National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) initiated an independent audit of the transportation of currency valuables from Austria to Ukraine through Hungary. Andriy Sybiga, a representative of Oschadbank, noted that the closure of the case is a predictable end to 'Victor Orban's lies'. He also emphasized that this story should continue, and all those involved in fabricating this mystification and the illegal detention of Ukrainian citizens and state property must be held accountable.
On May 6, 2026, Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Hungary returned the funds and valuables of Oschadbank. On May 18, Hungarian authorities lifted the three-year travel ban for Oschadbank employees. This entire situation underscores the importance of legal protection and adherence to international norms in finance.
The closure of the criminal case by the Hungarian authorities indicates that the suspicions of money laundering were not substantiated and that the operations of Oschadbank were carried out in accordance with the law. The importance of this case lies in the fact that it emphasizes the necessity of following international financial standards and legal protection for Ukrainian banks in foreign jurisdictions. At the same time, the reaction of the National Bank of Ukraine to the situation indicates a desire to ensure transparency and security of financial transactions, which is important in the face of modern challenges.