Moldova amnesty probe targets abuses
The results of the investigation into the application of the Amnesty Law could be ready in two weeks.
An announcement to this effect was made by Veronica-Mihailov Moraru. As part of the investigation, initiated by the Ministry of Justice on April 11 following suspicions of abuses and irregularities in the release of some life-sentenced inmates, the activity of the National Penitentiary Administration (ANP) is being verified, as well as how the law was applied by those responsible within the system.
"What I can state without prejudicing the investigation is that it is an extensive investigation within the ANP, covering several aspects including involvement in the drafting process, evaluation, the preparation of those procedures, and presentation in court, in order to obtain a clear picture of how those files that came before the judges were examined. I cannot say exactly how many people are targeted. We need to finalize this investigation," stated the minister.
According to Veronica Mihailov-Moraru, employees of Penitentiary number 17 in Rezina would also be targeted in the investigation. After its conclusion, the Ministry will submit official referrals to the competent authorities, including concerning the potential criminal liability of those involved, and will announce the results of the investigations. Until then, a series of measures have been taken.
"Several changes have been made at the leadership level of the National Penitentiary Administration. Similarly, measures have been taken to suspend ongoing processes related to procedures for the application of provisions from the Amnesty Law or certain provisions from the Penal Code," specified the minister.
Of the nine life-sentenced individuals released from detention, four were released based on the Amnesty Law. Additionally, three benefited from sentence reduction due to detention conditions, and two, who did not meet the condition of having served at least 25 years in prison, nonetheless received sentence reduction from life imprisonment to 30 years. According to the Minister of Justice, out of the nine procedures, three have been contested and annulled. Thus, two individuals have been re-incarcerated, and one is wanted.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
