Former Slovak Police Chief Gašpar and Security Chief Bödör Appear in Court for Očistec Corruption Case

Former Slovak police chief Tibor Gašpar appeared detached during a court hearing for the Očistec corruption case, while former intelligence chief Norbert Bödör declared only "Not guilty" when asked to enter a plea. Their defense attorney Marek Para, who represents both defendants, argued that the charges are too vague and announced his clients would not testify at this time. Para disputed the prosecution's case and claimed his clients were charged based on a "political order," an argument echoed by the defense team for former special prosecutor Dušan Kováčik, who is also implicated in the case. The Očistec operation is a major corruption investigation targeting high-level officials in Slovakia's security apparatus, alleging abuse of power and corrupt practices within the country's law enforcement and intelligence services.