Czech National Bank employee detained for multi‑million‑koruna theft

A long‑time employee of the Brno branch of the Czech National Bank (ČNB) was placed in custody by the Brno Municipal Court after police arrested him on suspicion of stealing tens of millions of korunas. The Financial Analytical Office had flagged suspicious transactions on the employee’s private accounts about two months earlier, leading to a joint investigation with police. Searches were carried out at the suspect’s home and at three non‑residential premises.

The ČNB’s board has ordered an extraordinary audit of the institution in response to the case. ČNB director of communications Jakub Holas confirmed the audit, emphasizing the bank’s constitutional role in maintaining price and financial stability. The incident highlights weaknesses in internal controls that allowed the employee to bypass limits and divert funds without triggering alarms.