Crossing border illegally becomes crime in Hungary

Budapest, September 15 (MTI) – From midnight on, crossing Hungary’s border illegally qualifies as a crime, carrying a three-year prison sentence and expulsion from the country.

People smugglers may face tougher prison terms than previously. For instance, organisers of such operations could get 10 to 20 years in prison.

From Tuesday on, the government can declare state of crisis due to mass migration for a period of up to six months.

Parliament is soon to discuss a bill submitted by ruling Fidesz-ChristDem lawmakers, giving the army special powers to protect the borders along with the police and the immigration office staff posted there during a state of crisis due to mass migration.

Parliament is scheduled to vote on the legislation during the last week of September.

Photo: MTI

Source: http://mtva.hu/hu/hungary-matters