Extradition of Vladimir Plahotniuc could take months, president of CRJM
The extradition process for Vladimir Plahotniuc, the former leader of the Democratic Party of Moldova, who was detained at an airport in Greece on July 22, could take several months. Ilie Chirtoacă, the president of the Legal Resources Center of Moldova (CRJM), warned about this potential delay. He emphasized that the authorities in the Republic of Moldova need to submit an official extradition request to the Hellenic Republic. This request must include clear explanations of the crimes for which Plahotniuc is being pursued.
“The extradition request is communicated either through diplomatic channels, such as our Embassy, or, if the treaty allows, there may be direct communication. Once this extradition request is submitted, Greek authorities must determine whether the request fulfills the necessary criteria, particularly whether the actions cited as criminal also constitute a crime under Greek law. For instance, in cases of money laundering or fraud, it is likely that this criterion is met. A judge in Greece will likely conduct this verification. Mr. Plahotniuc and his legal team can contest the extradition,” stated Ilie Chirtoacă in an interview with Moldova 1 TV.
After the extradition request is sent, Greek authorities will assess whether the alleged acts are crimes in Greece and whether the request is politically motivated, explained the director of the CRJM.
“The defense strategy of these individuals will likely argue that this extradition request is politically motivated.”
Ilie Chirtoacă expressed concern about the possibility that the extradition request may be denied, emphasizing that the Moldovan authorities need to present solid evidence and strong legal arguments.
“I would prefer not to speculate on the outcome. It solely depends on the quality of the evidence and how effectively our authorities can demonstrate to the relevant authorities that there is no risk of this individual facing inhuman and degrading treatment, and that there is sufficient evidence for the charges laid against him. We will see; there is no need to speculate on what will happen. The fact remains that the ball is now in the court of the Republic of Moldova's authorities to proceed with the extradition process,” he added.
When asked if, upon acceptance of the extradition, Vladimir Plahotniuc would be imprisoned or released for various activities, including political ones, Ilie Chirtoacă stated that it is difficult to predict at this stage.
“It is certain that this individual can be held in custody; however, again, it becomes the responsibility of the authorities to demonstrate that he cannot be released or investigated while in custody. Our prosecutors must convincingly present their case to the judges, addressing whether there is a risk that he might evade justice, fail to cooperate with the investigation, or influence witnesses. Only after analyzing these risks can the judges make their decision. Regardless of personal opinions, a person cannot be held in custody indefinitely simply because they are under investigation.”
The director of CRJM noted that this case will serve as a significant test for the justice system in the Republic of Moldova: “Let’s see if there is substantial evidence in this case.”
Former Democratic Party of Moldova leader Vladimir Plahotniuc was detained on Tuesday morning at Athens Airport while attempting to transit to Dubai. According to our sources, former PDM deputy Constantin Țuțu was also detained alongside him. Although the identity of the second individual has not been officially confirmed, it is known that he was part of Plahotniuc's inner circle.
