Slovakia journalist and his fiancée's murder probe wrapping up

The investigation into the murder of the Slovakian journalist, Jan Kuciak and his fiancée, Martina Kussnirova on February 21, 2018, is finally wrapping up. As reported by international media, the police authorities are now reaching an end to the case that shook the political scenario in Slovakia ahead of its general election in February. Evidently, five people have been charged with murder. The families of the victims will be introduced to the investigation file and will also be given the opportunity to offer any additional evidence. A special prosecutor monitoring the case will decide whether the evidence or the case shall be submitted to a court. 

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Slovak reporter murder

Kuciak and his fiancée were shot to death in their own house in February 2018. The Slovak reporter had filed a complaint with the police in 2017 stating that Marian Kocner, a businessman who is reportedly said to have strong political connections had threatened him. Kocner was also the prime suspect involved in the crime. Kuciak had uncovered a fraud which involved the businessmen and his fiance, Kusnirova highlighted the corruption in the Central European country which fueled mass protests leading to the resignation of then-Prime Minister of Slovakia, Robert Fico. Slovak authorities believed that it was a contract killing which linked to the journalist's work. 

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Investigation of the murder

Reportedly, four of the people who have been charged with the murder have pleaded not guilty. However, the fifth person has not only confessed to shooting Kuciack but also has been cooperating with the police in the procedure. Kocner had discussed his contacts among the authorities with a woman charged in the case through text messages as published by Slovak media. Purportedly, the special prosecutors said last month that Kocner's phone had revealed the communications with representatives of state bodies and also the justice system. The prosecutors had previously also stated that a total sum of 70,000 euros or $79,500 was paid for the killings. The prosecutors oversee the most serious crimes, are not identified in Slovakia for their protection. 

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(With inputs from Agencies)