STS: Trial in Purgatory Case Begins, All Defendants Are Present

Banska Bystrica, 11 May (TASR) - The Specialised Criminal Court (STS) in Banska Bystrica on Monday commenced the high-profile trial in the Purgatory case concerning suspicions that former top police and security forces officials allegedly set up and operated a criminal group between 2012 and 2018. All of the ten defendants appeared in the courtroom, including Nitra-based businessman Norbert B., current House vice-chair and former police chief (2012-18) Tibor G. and former special prosecutor Dusan K. [names abbreviated due to legal reasons]. In addition, former Financial Administration chief Frantisek I. and high-ranking officials of the now-defunct National Crime Agency (NAKA) Peter H., Marian Z., Robert K., Bernard S., Milan M. and businessman Boris T. also took their seats in the dock. They are charged with setting up, orchestrating and supporting a criminal group, as well as with bribery and accepting bribes, and the abuse of public office. The group was allegedly masterminded by Norbert B., according to the indictment. Several of the defendants have, on multiple occasions, publicly denied the charges, labelling the trial as politically motivated. jrg