Officers of the National Anticorruption Center and prosecutors from Balti are carrying out criminal investigation actions in the north and center of the Republic of Moldova as part of 20 criminal cases involving influence peddling and buying of influence.
Authorities have detained ten people, and searches have resulted in the seizure of cash in various currencies totaling more than EUR 120,000. In total, investigators are conducting 23 searches at homes, vehicles, and offices linked to the suspects.
Preliminary data indicate that the owner of a transport network allegedly demanded and received money from multiple carriers, claiming to have influence over public officials. In exchange, he allegedly promised to persuade those officials not to properly carry out their duties, including superficially documenting violations and avoiding obstacles to the transport of goods, parcels, and passengers.
The investigation is ongoing under the procedural leadership of prosecutors from Balti, who aim to identify all individuals involved and hold them accountable under the law. Authorities stated that all persons are presumed innocent until a final court ruling is issued.