The 13 judges, who reportedly include the vice-president of Slovakia’s Supreme Court, have been arrested alongside five others believed to be linked to the journalist’s killers.

The 18 individuals have been charged with offences including corruption and obstruction of justice, and the judges could face charges of interference in the independence of the courts, according to EUobserver.

Mr Kuciak and his fiancée Martina Kušnírová were shot dead in February 2018, prompting massive street protests which eventually led to the resignation of the Slovak prime minister.

Police believe Mr Kuciak was targeted because of his work investigating allegations of tax evasion and fraud involving high-ranking Slovak officials and tycoons.

Mr Kuciak’s final investigation was focused on real estate businessman Marián Kočner, who was charged last March with ordering his murder and is awaiting trial.

The arrested judges are alleged to have accepted bribes from Mr Kocner, according to reports.