Moldova arrests two in illegal migrant smuggling probe
Two Moldovan nationals have been arrested, suspected of operating an organised crime network to facilitate migrant smuggling into the European Union.
The arrests were carried out by the Border Police and the Prosecutor’s Office for Combating Organized Crime and Special Cases (PCCOCS) near the border. The operation occurred while the suspects allegedly attempted to facilitate an illegal border crossing for four South Asian migrants over the Prut River.
According to the Border Police, the two men, aged 38 and 39, both had prior criminal records. They are believed to be key members of a ring that has arranged multiple illegal crossings. Authorities estimate the suspects secured approximately €6,000 for this single operation.
The incident took place overnight on November 11 in the operational area managed by the "Lopatnic" Border Police Sector, North Regional Directorate.
Using high-tech surveillance equipment, border police officers tracked two individuals moving along an unpaved route known to be favoured by smugglers. An intervention team was deployed, which resulted in the immediate detention of the four migrants as they prepared to illegally cross the Prut River.
The two alleged organisers were identified and apprehended shortly after. An inflatable mattress, a pump, and fishing equipment were seized as evidence for the ongoing criminal proceedings.
Following a request from PCCOCS, both Moldovan nationals have been placed in preventive custody.
The Border Police and prosecutors have stated that investigations are continuing to identify all members of the suspected organised crime network and document the full extent of their activities.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
