Austrian concern as Hungary begins to release people smugglers

Austria is strengthening its border controls. This is because Hungary is starting to release convicted people smugglers, who have smuggled third world immigrants into the EU for payment, on the condition that they leave the country immediately.

Hungary’s prisons are full of people smugglers. According to official figures, 2,600 foreigners from 73 countries are currently in prison in Hungary, a large proportion of whom are convicted of people smuggling.

This will be too expensive in the long run, according to Viktor Orbán’s government. According to a decree issued by the Hungarian government late last month, convicted human traffickers will be released on condition that they leave Hungary within 72 hours.

According to Hungarian criminal law, a prison sentence of up to 20 years can be imposed for people smuggling, writes Austrian ORF.

Hungarian media mentions that 700 prisoners may be released, mainly people from Serbia, Romania and Ukraine.

In Austria, people are anything but delighted with the Hungarian move. The Ministry of the Interior is now seeking contact with the Hungarian side. In addition to increased border controls towards the neighboring country, other measures will be investigated.