According to local media, the arrested persons include former Civic Democrats deputy group head Petr Tluchor, former agriculture minister Ivan Fuksa, prime minister office head Jana Nagyova, among others.

　　Czech Prime Minister Petr Necas said he had no reason to resign over the police raid and that he did not have information proving criminal activities by his aides. He called an extraordinary meeting of the national security council later on Thursday.

　　"I'm personally convinced that I've not done anything dishonest, nor has anything dishonest been made by my aides, including (my office) director Jana Nagyova. That is why I have no reason to consider my resignation and my cabinet's fall," said Necas.

　　The opposition Social Democrats as well as some political analysts said on Thursday that Necas should assume political responsibility and step down now as the head of his office has been arrested.

　　Necas's resignation would automatically mean the resignation of his right-wing coalition cabinet. In such a situation, early elections could be held in late August or early September.

　　The police said they would provide further information on the raid on Friday.