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New Exhibition Highlights Evolution of Hungarian Counter-Terror Units

MTI-Hungary Today 2024.09.19.

A new temporary exhibition, Terror – Assassinations, Hostage-Taking, and Counter-Terrorism in Hungary, opened on Wednesday at the Police Museum in Budapest.

János Hajdu, Director General of the Counter-Terrorism Center (TEK), described the exhibition as a significant milestone for special forces, highlighting the considerable progress made in counter-terrorism over nearly 35 years.

Mr. Hajdu noted that in 1973, “action sections” were established within the Revolutionary Police Regiment, and in 1987, the Komondor (named after the famous Hungarian bred shepherd dog) Counter-Terrorism Service was created to address terrorist acts. In 1991, the Counter-Terrorism Department and the Komondor Service merged to form the Special Police Service, introducing a new operational concept. He praised the advancements in technical capabilities supported by the government and Interior Minister Sándor Pintér, and emphasized the international respect for Hungary’s counter-terrorism efforts.

TEK has trained over 300 servicemen in specialized combat first aid, close combat, and sniper skills.

Csaba Tarcsa, commander of the Standby Police, mentioned that the exhibition, running until April 5, will feature notable events such as the 1931 assassination attempt by Szilveszter Matuska in Biatorbágy (near Budapest) and the 1973 hostage crisis in Balassagyarmat (northern Hungary). It will showcase the evolution of counter-terrorism in Hungary.

Museologist Gábor Androvicz explained that the exhibition was inspired by the 50th anniversary of the 1973 Balassagyarmat hostage crisis.

It explores two main themes: the development of counter-terrorism agencies and specific high-profile crimes, including explosive incidents and hostage-taking. The exhibition presents a chronological overview of terrorism acts, culminating in the 2016 Teréz Blvd. bombing. It features documents, deactivated weapons, and equipment, as well as changes in uniforms from 1988 to the present. Additionally, on Hungarian Cultural Heritage Day, the museum will host six lectures on terrorism and specific attacks.

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Via MTI; Featured Image: Pixabay


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