Former TEK chief János Hajdu was formally suspected of the crime of unlawful detention involving the harassment of the victim on June 29, according to a 24-page interrogation transcript. The military prosecutor delivered the notification shortly after 9:00 a.m. at the Capital Investigating Prosecutor’s Office on the Belgrade waterfront.
Did You Know? János Hajdu led the Counter Terrorism Centre (TEK) from 2010 until his dismissal at the end of May, but he had already been removed from the police force two weeks prior to his June 29 interrogation.
Hajdu’s Defense Regarding Ukrainian Money Transporters
During the interrogation, which lasted from 9:00 a.m. until approximately 6:00 p.m., Hajdu addressed the handcuffing of Ukrainian money transporters. He claimed a “thick misunderstanding” occurred with an operational commander regarding whether the suspects should wear handcuffs continuously.
Hajdu stated, “I note that we do not interrogate witnesses or suspects in handcuffs, everyone knows this,” according to the transcript. However, he did not deny that the practice occurred. This statement contrasts with testimony from a NAV leader, who reported that TEK officers were explicitly asked to remove handcuffs from a witness because witnesses are not interrogated in that manner.
Timeline of the “Gold Convoy” Case
The events leading to the detention began on March 3, two days before the money transporters were captured. Hajdu testified that Örs Farkas, the state secretary supervising civil intelligence services, called him and summoned him to a meeting at the IH building, where Farkas was not alone.
Hajdu’s account of these events is based on his own perspective. The interrogation record shows that the former chief contradicted testimony previously provided by two NAV leaders involved in the operation.
Legal Status and Immediate Outcomes
Hajdu has filed a complaint against the suspicion and has not admitted to committing the crime. Following the conclusion of the interrogation, authorities seized his iPhone 17 Pro, though he was permitted to leave the premises freely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific crime is János Hajdu suspected of?
He is suspected of the crime of unlawful detention committed through the harassment of the victim.
Who dismissed János Hajdu from his position?
The President of the Republic dismissed him upon the recommendation of the new Minister of Interior.
What was Hajdu’s response to the allegations?
Hajdu filed a complaint against the suspicion and did not admit to the crime.
Do you believe operational “misunderstandings” justify the use of handcuffs during witness interrogations?
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