Moldova 'Russian-linked riots plot' foiled ahead of key election
Moldovan prosecutors have requested 30-day pre-trial detention for 12 people arrested in connection with their participation in military camps in Serbia.
They are accused of preparing to incite mass riots in the country. A decision is pending from a judge.
PCCOCS spokesperson Emil Gaitur said other people were being investigated but not held in custody.
More than 70 people were held for 72 hours after a large-scale police operation was carried out across Moldova on Monday morning. Police have conducted more than 250 raids, targeting 111 people, some of whom were already in prison. The criminal case, opened in July, concerns plans for mass riots and destabilisation coordinated from outside the country to disrupt the 28 September election.
Investigators say some of the people involved took part in training in Serbia, where they were taught street violence tactics by foreign instructors linked to Russian security services. Police said the raids resulted in the seizure of mobile phones, SIM cards, bank cards issued by financial institutions both in the country and abroad, passports, weapons and ammunition, camouflage equipment, and large amounts of money. Tents prepared for potential street actions were also discovered.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
