Law enforcement targets Gagauzia officials amid corruption probe
Moldovan law enforcement authorities have conducted searches across multiple regions of the country as part of a criminal investigation launched on grounds of electoral corruption and illicit financing of political parties.
The Gagauz autonomous region’s press reports that these raids, including in Comrat, began this morning. Allegedly targeted are the deputy of the Bashkan, Victor Petrov, and several deputies of the Gagauz Popular Assembly. When contacted by phone, both Dmitri Constantinov, president of the Gagauz Popular Assembly, and Victor Petrov did not respond to our calls.
“For three years, the ruling party has exerted pressure, creating conflict between the Moldovan people and the Gagauz. Now they have escalated further: not only do they issue insults, but they also conduct daily arrests of Gagauz residents,” said Evghenia Guțul, the Bashkan of ATU Gagauzia.
The head of the General Police Inspectorate (IGP), Viorel Cernăuțeanu, confirmed to Teleradio-Moldova that searches are currently underway across several regions, though he provided no further details.
"State institutions will release further updates throughout the day. This concerns multiple searches," stated Viorel Cernăuțeanu.
This story is being updated...
Translation by Iurie Tataru
