The Commission for the Control of INTERPOL’s Files has agreed to review its July 2020 decision in the case of Vladimir Plahotniuc, following a request from Moldova’s Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office. This request was submitted via the Directorate for International Police Cooperation (DCPI) under the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Veronica Dragalin, head of the Anti-Corruption Department, announced the development on Monday, November 25.
“The individual in question and their lawyers could present information and arguments. At the same time, the Republic of Moldova will once again present its case, demonstrating that the criminal investigation is legal, fair, and compliant with INTERPOL’s Constitution,” Dragalin stated.
FOR THE MOSTÂ IMPORTANT NEWS, FOLLOW US ONÂ TWITTER!Â
Background on the Case
In October 2019, the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office requested INTERPOL to issue a Red Notice for Vladimir Plahotniuc. Authorities connected the warrant to allegations of money laundering linked to his involvement in a banking scheme that defrauded Moldova’s banking system and possibly its state budget of over $1 billion between 2013 and 2015. The investigation, referred to as “Bank Fraud,” is overseen by the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office.
However, in July 2020, INTERPOL’s Commission reviewed Moldova’s request at Plahotniuc’s behest and rejected it, ordering the removal of all information about him from INTERPOL’s database. Moldova’s subsequent requests for assistance in 2021 and 2022 went unanswered.
Next Steps
With the case reopened, both parties will have the opportunity to submit their arguments. Moldovan authorities hope this review will lead to renewed cooperation in holding Plahotniuc accountable.