Ukrainian state bank advances demands after Hungary seized its collectors
Oschadbank demands Hungary return gold, cash, and vehicles (photo: facebook.com)
Ukrainian state bank Oschadbank is demanding that Hungary return valuables and armored vehicles seized on March 5, stating that the Hungarian government effectively appropriated foreign property, according to the bank's press service.
Oschadbank reports that Hungary has returned seven Ukrainian citizens who were taken, but the valuables and vehicles remain in the hands of the Hungarian government—entirely illegally.
The state bank has announced plans to challenge any decisions by Hungarian migration authorities that restrict the bank's armored transport employees from remaining in the European Union.
"The matter of violating the rights of Oschadbank staff during their detention for over 24 hours, without access to legal assistance or consular support, will also be thoroughly examined," the bank stated.
A second focus is forcing Hungary to return the bank's seized property. This includes two armored vehicles, valuables worth $40 million and €35 million, and 9 kilograms of bank-grade gold.
"Oschadbank is fully confident in the legality of its actions. All relevant information and supporting documents have been provided to the National Bank of Ukraine. To further confirm its legal position, the bank will seek the expertise of one of the world's leading international firms," the statement added.
Detention of Ukrainian bank collectors in Hungary
On March 5, Hungary detained two armored vehicles of Ukraine's state bank Oschadbank and seven Ukrainian citizens from the cash-in-transit team without justification.
The same day, Ukraine successfully secured the return of the seven bank collectors, but the property remains in the hands of Viktor Orban's government. The media reported on why Budapest detained the collectors and whether the incident could cause a currency shortage in the country.
Separately, the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured that Ukraine would take appropriate measures, including initiating sanctions, in response to the detention of its citizens in Hungary.
