Uzonglu, who spent two and a half years in jail while the police investigated the case and another two on parole, had to wait 13 years for an appeals court to overturn the verdict, clearing him of all charges.

In all, he said he plans to file 60 media suits.

“The Czech media, not only contrary to the law, but also contrary to media ethics, and without any evidence, called me a Mafioso, a criminal and a drug smuggler," he told reporters at a press conference.

Earlier, he told reporters that he also intends to sue the state for wrongful arrest and procedures, adding that he has spent 13 million Kč ($8.5 million) on his own defense over the last 13 years. The specific amount of the lawsuit will be determined according to ongoing damage assessments.

“They destroyed my companies, my factories – everything was looted, with the police silently looking on," he said.